Competition in football is not just about matches but also intense battles for dominance, where the top football teams in the world compete against each other to prove their strength and talent. The biggest matches not only attract the attention of fans but also leave a lasting mark on football history. From classic clashes between local teams to thrilling international finals, football competitions are always a defining feature that shapes the identity and appeal of the beautiful game. In this article, let's explore with Wintips 10 biggest soccer rivalries, where the pinnacles of world soccer are cherished and create unforgettable memories and feats.
Top biggest soccer rivalries today
1. English Derby: MU vs Liverpool
The English Derby between Manchester United and Liverpool is not only one of the biggest domestic soccer rivalries but also a clash between two cities, Manchester and Liverpool, which are separated by a distance of 56 km. Although both MU and Liverpool have had intense derbies with teams from their cities, including Everton and Man City, their matches against each other are always regarded as an important 'civil war'.
MU and Liverpool are not only two of the most famous football teams but also icons of success in English football. Before their most recent encounter, MU held the advantage with 82 wins, 58 draws, and 71 losses out of 211 English derbies. However, in their most recent match, the Red Devils suffered a crushing 7-0 defeat to Liverpool.
The rivalry between MU and Liverpool is not just a match but also an event that captures the attention of fans worldwide, providing both teams with an opportunity to showcase their strength and class in English football.
2. Derby d'italia: Juventus vs Inter Milan
Although the Derby d'Italia is not a local derby, with Turin being 142.5 kilometers from Milan, the long-standing rivalry between Juventus and Inter Milan has created one of the most exciting matches in Italian football. The term "Derby d'Italia" was introduced in 1967 by journalist Gianni Brera and has since become a global spectacle for football fans.
When looking at the historical record of one of the biggest soccer rivalries in the world, Juventus vs. Inter Milan, it is evident that Juventus has historically had the upper hand. The Bianconeri have won 91 matches, drawn 52 times, and lost only 56 times in a total of 199 encounters. The drama and emotion in Derby d'Italia lie not only in the final result but also in the unpredictable twists and passionate reactions from fans of both teams.
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3. Football rivalry: Bayern Munich vs Borussia Dortmund
Compared to other iconic matches such as Derby d'Italia or El Clásico, Der Klassiker has a relatively shorter history. By the 1990s, Borussia Dortmund had truly established itself as one of Germany’s top football clubs. In the past, Bayern Munich’s biggest rival used to be Werder Bremen.
The history of Der Klassiker has historically favored Bayern Munich. Bayern dominated with 65 wins, 35 draws, and only 32 losses after a total of 132 encounters. Notably, Der Klassiker is the only Classic match to take place in a Champions League final. In this match, Bayern Munich defeated Dortmund 2-1 in 2013, creating a new chapter in the history of both of Germany's top teams.
4. Biggest rival in football: Marseille vs PSG
The "Le Classique" match between the two biggest rivals in soccer, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Marseille, has reshaped French football. PSG, founded in 1970, established a fierce rivalry with Marseille, which began in the 1990s and became increasingly competitive over the years, especially after significant investment from Qatari owners.
This is the only rivalry in France between two teams that have won the Champions League, with Marseille winning in 1993. The most recent Le Classique saw PSG securing a 3-0 victory, bringing their total number of wins to 45, compared to Marseille's 34, along with 21 draws.
The rivalry between PSG and Marseille is not just a contest on the pitch but also a battle for dominance and national prestige, making Le Classique a vital part of both French and European football.
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5. Le Classique: Benfica vs Porto
The O Clássico matchup between Benfica and Porto is not only a clash between Portugal’s two top football teams but also a rivalry between the country's two biggest cities, Lisbon and Porto. By the 1980s, the concept of O Clássico had started taking shape, and since then, this rivalry has become an indispensable part of Portuguese football.
This period marked Porto's strength, as they competed not only in domestic competitions but also at the continental level. Porto had even replaced Sporting Lisbon, Benfica's old rival, to become their biggest competitor in the country.
In the European Cup, Porto consistently demonstrated its strength and dominated its opponents. On both the domestic and international fronts, the head-to-head record between Benfica and Porto favored Porto with 64 wins, 44 draws, and 49 losses, creating a fierce rivalry and a vibrant national sentiment.
6. Derby old firm: Celtic vs Rangers
The Old Firm derby between Celtic and Rangers is not only a clash between the two biggest rivals in Scottish soccer but also a highly emotional match between two different communities and social classes. Perhaps this is one of the most unique rivalries in football, where the confrontation is not only limited to the field but also extends into daily life in Glasgow.
This match not only represented a high-stakes competition in the Scottish Premiership rankings but also embodied a blend of cultural, religious, and social factors. Historically, Rangers have often been associated with Protestant and working-class communities, while Celtic has strong links with Catholic communities and the Celtic heritage.
Matches between Celtic and Rangers often feature tense moments, and it is not uncommon for off-field incidents to affect the match atmosphere. This turns each encounter into an unforgettable and unique experience, not only for football fans but also for the wider community.
7. Super classic Argentina: Boca Juniors vs River plate
The Superclásico match between Boca Juniors and River Plate, also known as the Superclásico, is one of the biggest events in Argentine football and even all of South America. Originally called Clásico de la Dársena and later Clásico de los Clásicos, this match eventually became known as the Superclásico, a name given by fans to emphasize its prestige and immense appeal.
Known for its intensity and drama, the Superclásico is not only a match between two of the biggest teams in Argentina but also a historic rivalry marked by numerous ups and downs in Argentine football. Boca Juniors and River Plate are the two most supported teams in Argentina, and every time they face each other, the stadium atmosphere becomes electrifying with the passion of both sets of fans.
Having played more than 250 matches, Boca Juniors has the edge with 91 wins, 83 draws, and 84 losses. More than just clashes between two teams, these matches are a crucial part of Argentine football culture, captivating millions of fans worldwide.
8. Derby Corinthians vs Flamengo
Due to the country's vast size, Brazil began organizing national football tournaments only in 1971, following the development of the commercial aviation industry. Before then, football teams were primarily limited to state-level competitions, making it difficult to establish a true national "classic" fixture for Brazil.
Despite this, Brazil still has a match known as El Clásico del Pueblo between the two most-supported teams, Corinthians and Flamengo. The two representatives from the states of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have faced off 143 times, with Flamengo winning 59, drawing 30, and losing 54. This match is not only a duel between two teams but also a showcase of the passion and love for football shared by millions of Brazilians.
9. Derby Chivas Guadalajara vs Club America
In Mexico, El Clásico de Clásicos or El Clásico Nacional refers to a match between two historic teams and is considered one of the greatest soccer rivalries. It was a battle between Chivas de Guadalajara, from western Mexico, and Club América, representing Mexico City. The rivalry between the two teams began in the 1950s, and since then, they have clashed 246 times in total.
Looking at the head-to-head record, Club America holds a slight advantage in this rivalry. They won 90 matches, drew 79, and lost only 77 out of 246 encounters. Every time Chivas de Guadalajara and Club America clash, fans get to witness the drama and intensity that turn El Clásico de Clásicos into one of the most iconic events in Mexican football.
10. Derby Nacional vs Penarol
When discussing the greatest international soccer rivalries, we cannot overlook the fierce rivalry between the two biggest teams in the Uruguayan capital, Montevideo—Peñarol and Nacional. Since CURCC was the predecessor of Peñarol, this is widely regarded as the oldest derby outside England, with the first match dating back to 1900.
For more than a century, Peñarol and Nacional have created one of the most intense rivalries in world football. In total, the two teams have clashed 501 times, with a remarkably even record: 173 wins for Peñarol, 162 for Nacional, and 166 draws. These are not just numbers; they tell a story of fierce rivalry and the deep pride of Uruguayan fans.
This rivalry extends beyond domestic competitions, as Peñarol and Nacional also frequently compete in international tournaments. They have faced each other in 30 domestic finals and 38 meetings in the Copa Libertadores, the premier club tournament in South America. The matches between Peñarol and Nacional are not only intense battles but also an unparalleled part of Uruguay’s football history.
Conclusion
We have just explored the top 10 biggest soccer rivalries today with a detailed analysis. These rivalries are not just football matches, but heroic masterpieces that capture the passion, pride, and endless love from the hearts of millions of fans. Famous derbies like Manchester United vs. Liverpool, El Clásico between Barcelona and Real Madrid, or the Superclásico in South America are historic landmarks and endless sources of inspiration for generations of football fans around the world. These rivalries have become an indispensable part of the colorful journey of world football. We hope you enjoy this beautiful sport!
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