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Goal.com Worldview: World's Biggest Local Derby – Part Two
Ahead of this Sunday’s Rome derby, Goal.com's worldwide editorial team came together to investigate what really is the biggest local derby in world football. In part two we focus on The Americas, Asia and Africa...
15-Nov-2008 7:34:07 PM
The Rome derby is one of the top games in the Serie A calendar, and probably the most explosive, passionate and gripping local derby in Italy. Some would even argue that it is the best derby in world football.
In order to find out exactly what the world’s biggest clash is, we asked a global panel of Goal.com editors to sell the greatest local derbies from their country or region. Yesterday we showcased all the top derbies from Europe, today we present those from The Americas, Asia and Africa.
Every derby will begin with the words: 'Team X versus Team Y is the biggest derby in the world because'...
Remember we are talking about teams who share the same city, so Barcelona versus Real Madrid, for example, does not count.
South America
Boca Juniors versus River Plate is the biggest derby in the world because it is not only seen as a football match between Argentina's two most popular clubs, but a clash between teams from two socially diverse backgrounds - the rich (River) and the poor (Boca). It is more than a game, as for the people of Argentina, belonging to Boca or River is a way of life, whether you're rich or poor it doesn't matter. On matchday the entire nation is at a standstill anticipating the outcome of the game. In order to show their loyalty for their team, fans from both sides always generate a truly breathtaking and unique atmosphere in the terraces, whether that be at La Bombonera or El Monumental.
El Superclásico is the most intense derby in the entire world, and the fact that so many legendary players have emerged from both teams increases its credibility. Players always fight until the death, even if at times this means resorting to violence. The day after the derby players from the winning side are treated like national heroes, while those from the losing side have often confessed to be afraid to walk on the street, because of possible abuse from their demanding fans.
Greg Sica, Goal.com International (South America)
The "Clásico de Avellaneda" between Independiente and Racing is the biggest derby in the world because no city is so perfectly split with 50% of fans for each side as Rosario. Anywhere in the city, one of the most populated in the country, you can find fans of ‘Leprosos’ or ‘Canallas’, so you can 'smell' the rivalry in any place when a derby is approaching.
Martin Decaux, Goal.com Argentina
Flamengo versus Fluminense is the biggest derby in the world because when both teams meet Rio de Janeiro is like a carnival. Flu-Fla is without doubt the most important derby in Brazilian football, and a stunning backdrop is the fact that the derby is played at the legendary Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janeiro, where in 1963 both teams clashed in an epic derby that was played in front of a world record attendance of 194,603 fans for a club match. Both teams have illustrious histories, both at a local and national level. Over the years Flamengo, Brazil's most popular club, have had the upper hand over their rivals, with 131 victories compared to Fluminense's 118. But as well as the level of competitiveness, what makes it the best derby in the world is that it is the most important showdown between clubs from arguably the most successful football nation in the world: Brazil.
Nacional versus Peñarol is the biggest derby in the world because it is one of the few derbies that paralyses an entire nation. Combined, both clubs account for almost 90% of fans throughout Uruguay, and the derby has a rich tradition dating back to 1900 when Peñarol beat their rivals 2-0. Since then both teams have won three Intercontinental Cups each but, even if both have struggled for international recognition in recent years, El Clásico is still as passionate as ever. The rivalry between both teams is so great that a few years back players from both teams were sent to prison after a massive-scale brawl. The fact that Peñarol are generally associated with the working-class people, while Nacional tend to be linked with the elite adds an extra-dimension to the game. Each time Nacional and Peñarol clash Uruguay is in chaos, and the position where both teams find themselves in the table is irrelevant, as 70,000 fans are always guaranteed at the legendary Centenario stadium in Montevideo.
Colo Colo versus Universidad de Chile is the biggest derby in the world because not only does it bring together Chile's two most widely supported teams but by far the two most successful ones. Since the first meeting between both sides back in 1935, the derby has gained prominence, to the degree that fans from both teams absolutely hate each other. Chileans are amongst the most passionate supporters in the world, and this enthusiasm multiplies on derby day, when both sets of fans generate an intimidating atmosphere for each other. Whenever Colo Colo and 'La U' enter the field on derby day they are received by confetti, smoke bombs and fireworks by their loyal supporters. Traditionally the rivalry is played with lots of intensity, and unfortunately violence is very common both on and off the field, especially when both teams meet in crucial championship deciders.
Greg Sica, Goal.com International (South America)
North America
The Los Angeles Galaxy versus Chivas USA is the biggest derby in the world because, well, it's the only derby in the top soccer league of the United States, which is a world superpower. This derby also features the world's most famous soccer player, David Beckham, so it must be the best. What other local derby features Posh sitting in the stands? He recently said that the highlight of his 2008 season was the Chivas USA-Galaxy rivalry.
Of course, the truth is that the concept of a derby is foreign to many Americans. The U.S. is so spread out that most MLS teams are hundreds of miles away from each other. Only Chivas USA and the Galaxy share a stadium and a city and have only done so since 2005, which Chivas USA joined the league. Beckham's Galaxy team may have won the local title this year - dubbed the ‘Honda SuperClasico’ by the sponsors - but the Galaxy failed to make the playoffs to compete for the league title. So it's definitely not the world's biggest derby, but it's a start.
Andrea Canales, Goal.com USA
Atlas versus Chivas is the biggest local derby in the world because it is historical, lost in the origins of local pride. It stems from the streets. The city of Guadalajara, Mexico's second most important city, is divided between these two teams. When they face off against each other, little importance is given to the lone Atlas title, won half a century ago, or to the 11 championships claimed by Chivas. All that matters is faithfulness to the club colours. Both teams are famous for fielding local youth products, such as Chivas goalkeeper Oswaldo Sanchez and Atlas's rising star Jorge Hernandez, who grew up exposed to the bitter rivalry every day. From the their earliest moments, they know what it means to wear the jersey and uphold city pride when they step on the field.
Cesar Garcia, Goal.com USA
Asia
The Tehran Derby between Persepolis and Esteghlal is the biggest derby in the world because it means so much that referees are usually drafted in from other countries to officiate this match, one that brings all of football-crazy Iran to a halt. Traffic in Tehran also stops as over 100,000 men (not women) crowd into the Azadi Stadium to watch the Reds (Persepolis) take on the Blues (Esteghlal). It doesn't matter how badly the season is going, a win in this match can, and has, saved a coaches job. Ony Kolkata rivals this in Asia.
John Duerden, Goal.com Korea
East Bengal versus Mohun Bagan is the biggest derby in the world because it is a clash of two sub-cultures and is an extension of the societal divide that still simmers in most, if not all, parts of Bengal. East Bengal have been traditionally supported by immigrants from Bangladesh whereas Mohun Bagan's supporters are from Bengal itself. The differences between these two cultures are quite stark and although the animosity has been somewhat tempered down the years, the Kolkata derby provides a fissure through which the latent hatred, scepticism and cultural contrasts rush to the surface. A Kolkata derby is always attended by nearly 120,000 supporters and the atmosphere at the Salt Lake Stadium is electric. On derby days the stadium is blazed by fireworks, thousands of painted faces and myriads of banners, several of which can be quite provoking.
Subhankar Mondal, Goal.com India
In China, the game between Shandong Luneng and Shanghai Shenhua is the biggest derby in the world because the atmosphere is incomparably intense. Labelled the ‘Nation Derby’, these two teams are the biggest and richest clubs in our league right now, and in the current season both them are still fighting for the league title. Shandong have 56 pts and Shanghai 55 pts, and there are just four rounds left. Before the match, the fans of both clubs will start to abuse their rivals over the internet. During matchday there will be some banners in the stadium teasing the opposition. Of course, more policemen are needed to protect the visiting teams.
Dapeng Liang, Goal.com China
In Korea, Suwon Samsung and Seoul FC is the biggest derby in the world because both teams represent rival corporations - Samsung and GS. They also compete at the top of the table, so it has to be the biggest match in the K-League. 55,000 people go to watch the game, and it is called the 'Colour derby' because Suwon wears blue and Seoul wear red kits.
Lee Cheol-gyu, Goal.com Korea
The Jakarta Derby (Persija vs Persitara), from Indonesia, is the biggest derby in the world because it is unique in having a friendly rather than a fierce rivalry. Persija is the older, superior club. They have won five national titles during the amateur "Perserikatan" era, and were also crowned 2001 champions after the Indonesian league turned pro in 1994. Northern neighbours Persitara, on the other hand, are the less fortunate little brother. They currently face enormous financial problems. Due to security concerns last July, the derby was forced to be played outside of Jakarta without any spectators. Persija won the match 3-1.
Bima Said, Goal.com Indonesia
Africa
The Soweto Derby in South Africa involving Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs is the biggest derby in the world because football is the sport for the country's black majority, with both the Pirates and the Chiefs being the national toast. This derby may be less than 40 years old but, ever since Kaizer Motaung broke away from the Pirates to found his own club (Chiefs), matches between these clubs have taken on a new life of their own. While the Chiefs are 'The Glamour Boys' and the best supported club in the land, Pirates draw their own support from the rural poor. These games are known to have attracted crowds of 100,000.
The derby has been marred by two major tragedies. In 2001, a stampede at Ellis Park in Johannesburg left 43 fans dead. Ten years earlier 42 supporters lost their lives in similar circumstances. The common enemy for both set of fans is the police - a symbol of repression of the blacks during the dark days of Apartheid. Otherwise, these matchups are played in a very friendly atmosphere, full of song and dance and complete with the most outrageous fan gear - from long, noisy trumpets known as ‘vuvuzelas’ to bogus sunglasses, masks and helmets.
The Cairo derby between Zamalek and Al Ahly is the biggest derby in the world because such are the mounting emotions on offer that the games are considered too big for Egyptian referees to handle and so European match officials are brought in. The fierce rivalry between the Cairo clubs took root in 1911 when Zamalek were formed to rival their older neighbours. While Ahly are the people's club, the middle class in society identify with Zamalek.
Don't rule out violence during clashes between the Red Devils (Ahly) and the Whites (Zamalek), which attract regular crowds of 100,000 at the Cairo International Stadium. Fights break out in the stands and also on the pitch. During the 100th Cairo derby, for instance, attacker Shikabala was fined and suspended by the Egyptian FA for his violent reactions to taunts.
Samm Audu, Goal.com International (Africa)
Some Other Notable Non-European Derbies
Palmeiras - Corinthians (Brazil)
Palmeiras - Sao Paulo (Brazil)
Atletico Mineiro - Cruzeiro (Brazil)
Barcelona - Emelec (Ecuador)
San Lorenzo - Huracan (Argentina)
Gimnasia - Estudiantes (Argentina)
Bolivar - The Strongest (Bolivia)
Alianza Lima - Universitario (Peru)
Olimpia - Cerra Porteno (Paraguay)
Santa Fe - Millonarios (Colombia)
Wydad - Raja (Morocco)
Club Africain - Esperance (Tunisia)
What are your views on this topic? Which derby do you believe to be the biggest in world football? Goal.com wants to know what YOU think...
Carlo Garganese
In order to find out exactly what the world’s biggest clash is, we asked a global panel of Goal.com editors to sell the greatest local derbies from their country or region. Yesterday we showcased all the top derbies from Europe, today we present those from The Americas, Asia and Africa.
Every derby will begin with the words: 'Team X versus Team Y is the biggest derby in the world because'...
Remember we are talking about teams who share the same city, so Barcelona versus Real Madrid, for example, does not count.
South America
Boca Juniors versus River Plate is the biggest derby in the world because it is not only seen as a football match between Argentina's two most popular clubs, but a clash between teams from two socially diverse backgrounds - the rich (River) and the poor (Boca). It is more than a game, as for the people of Argentina, belonging to Boca or River is a way of life, whether you're rich or poor it doesn't matter. On matchday the entire nation is at a standstill anticipating the outcome of the game. In order to show their loyalty for their team, fans from both sides always generate a truly breathtaking and unique atmosphere in the terraces, whether that be at La Bombonera or El Monumental.
El Superclásico is the most intense derby in the entire world, and the fact that so many legendary players have emerged from both teams increases its credibility. Players always fight until the death, even if at times this means resorting to violence. The day after the derby players from the winning side are treated like national heroes, while those from the losing side have often confessed to be afraid to walk on the street, because of possible abuse from their demanding fans.
Greg Sica, Goal.com International (South America)
The "Clásico de Avellaneda" between Independiente and Racing is the biggest derby in the world because no city is so perfectly split with 50% of fans for each side as Rosario. Anywhere in the city, one of the most populated in the country, you can find fans of ‘Leprosos’ or ‘Canallas’, so you can 'smell' the rivalry in any place when a derby is approaching.
Martin Decaux, Goal.com Argentina
Flamengo versus Fluminense is the biggest derby in the world because when both teams meet Rio de Janeiro is like a carnival. Flu-Fla is without doubt the most important derby in Brazilian football, and a stunning backdrop is the fact that the derby is played at the legendary Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janeiro, where in 1963 both teams clashed in an epic derby that was played in front of a world record attendance of 194,603 fans for a club match. Both teams have illustrious histories, both at a local and national level. Over the years Flamengo, Brazil's most popular club, have had the upper hand over their rivals, with 131 victories compared to Fluminense's 118. But as well as the level of competitiveness, what makes it the best derby in the world is that it is the most important showdown between clubs from arguably the most successful football nation in the world: Brazil.
Nacional versus Peñarol is the biggest derby in the world because it is one of the few derbies that paralyses an entire nation. Combined, both clubs account for almost 90% of fans throughout Uruguay, and the derby has a rich tradition dating back to 1900 when Peñarol beat their rivals 2-0. Since then both teams have won three Intercontinental Cups each but, even if both have struggled for international recognition in recent years, El Clásico is still as passionate as ever. The rivalry between both teams is so great that a few years back players from both teams were sent to prison after a massive-scale brawl. The fact that Peñarol are generally associated with the working-class people, while Nacional tend to be linked with the elite adds an extra-dimension to the game. Each time Nacional and Peñarol clash Uruguay is in chaos, and the position where both teams find themselves in the table is irrelevant, as 70,000 fans are always guaranteed at the legendary Centenario stadium in Montevideo.
Colo Colo versus Universidad de Chile is the biggest derby in the world because not only does it bring together Chile's two most widely supported teams but by far the two most successful ones. Since the first meeting between both sides back in 1935, the derby has gained prominence, to the degree that fans from both teams absolutely hate each other. Chileans are amongst the most passionate supporters in the world, and this enthusiasm multiplies on derby day, when both sets of fans generate an intimidating atmosphere for each other. Whenever Colo Colo and 'La U' enter the field on derby day they are received by confetti, smoke bombs and fireworks by their loyal supporters. Traditionally the rivalry is played with lots of intensity, and unfortunately violence is very common both on and off the field, especially when both teams meet in crucial championship deciders.
Greg Sica, Goal.com International (South America)
North America
The Los Angeles Galaxy versus Chivas USA is the biggest derby in the world because, well, it's the only derby in the top soccer league of the United States, which is a world superpower. This derby also features the world's most famous soccer player, David Beckham, so it must be the best. What other local derby features Posh sitting in the stands? He recently said that the highlight of his 2008 season was the Chivas USA-Galaxy rivalry.
Of course, the truth is that the concept of a derby is foreign to many Americans. The U.S. is so spread out that most MLS teams are hundreds of miles away from each other. Only Chivas USA and the Galaxy share a stadium and a city and have only done so since 2005, which Chivas USA joined the league. Beckham's Galaxy team may have won the local title this year - dubbed the ‘Honda SuperClasico’ by the sponsors - but the Galaxy failed to make the playoffs to compete for the league title. So it's definitely not the world's biggest derby, but it's a start.
Andrea Canales, Goal.com USA
Atlas versus Chivas is the biggest local derby in the world because it is historical, lost in the origins of local pride. It stems from the streets. The city of Guadalajara, Mexico's second most important city, is divided between these two teams. When they face off against each other, little importance is given to the lone Atlas title, won half a century ago, or to the 11 championships claimed by Chivas. All that matters is faithfulness to the club colours. Both teams are famous for fielding local youth products, such as Chivas goalkeeper Oswaldo Sanchez and Atlas's rising star Jorge Hernandez, who grew up exposed to the bitter rivalry every day. From the their earliest moments, they know what it means to wear the jersey and uphold city pride when they step on the field.
Cesar Garcia, Goal.com USA
Asia
The Tehran Derby between Persepolis and Esteghlal is the biggest derby in the world because it means so much that referees are usually drafted in from other countries to officiate this match, one that brings all of football-crazy Iran to a halt. Traffic in Tehran also stops as over 100,000 men (not women) crowd into the Azadi Stadium to watch the Reds (Persepolis) take on the Blues (Esteghlal). It doesn't matter how badly the season is going, a win in this match can, and has, saved a coaches job. Ony Kolkata rivals this in Asia.
John Duerden, Goal.com Korea
East Bengal versus Mohun Bagan is the biggest derby in the world because it is a clash of two sub-cultures and is an extension of the societal divide that still simmers in most, if not all, parts of Bengal. East Bengal have been traditionally supported by immigrants from Bangladesh whereas Mohun Bagan's supporters are from Bengal itself. The differences between these two cultures are quite stark and although the animosity has been somewhat tempered down the years, the Kolkata derby provides a fissure through which the latent hatred, scepticism and cultural contrasts rush to the surface. A Kolkata derby is always attended by nearly 120,000 supporters and the atmosphere at the Salt Lake Stadium is electric. On derby days the stadium is blazed by fireworks, thousands of painted faces and myriads of banners, several of which can be quite provoking.
Subhankar Mondal, Goal.com India
In China, the game between Shandong Luneng and Shanghai Shenhua is the biggest derby in the world because the atmosphere is incomparably intense. Labelled the ‘Nation Derby’, these two teams are the biggest and richest clubs in our league right now, and in the current season both them are still fighting for the league title. Shandong have 56 pts and Shanghai 55 pts, and there are just four rounds left. Before the match, the fans of both clubs will start to abuse their rivals over the internet. During matchday there will be some banners in the stadium teasing the opposition. Of course, more policemen are needed to protect the visiting teams.
Dapeng Liang, Goal.com China
In Korea, Suwon Samsung and Seoul FC is the biggest derby in the world because both teams represent rival corporations - Samsung and GS. They also compete at the top of the table, so it has to be the biggest match in the K-League. 55,000 people go to watch the game, and it is called the 'Colour derby' because Suwon wears blue and Seoul wear red kits.
Lee Cheol-gyu, Goal.com Korea
The Jakarta Derby (Persija vs Persitara), from Indonesia, is the biggest derby in the world because it is unique in having a friendly rather than a fierce rivalry. Persija is the older, superior club. They have won five national titles during the amateur "Perserikatan" era, and were also crowned 2001 champions after the Indonesian league turned pro in 1994. Northern neighbours Persitara, on the other hand, are the less fortunate little brother. They currently face enormous financial problems. Due to security concerns last July, the derby was forced to be played outside of Jakarta without any spectators. Persija won the match 3-1.
Bima Said, Goal.com Indonesia
Africa
The Soweto Derby in South Africa involving Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs is the biggest derby in the world because football is the sport for the country's black majority, with both the Pirates and the Chiefs being the national toast. This derby may be less than 40 years old but, ever since Kaizer Motaung broke away from the Pirates to found his own club (Chiefs), matches between these clubs have taken on a new life of their own. While the Chiefs are 'The Glamour Boys' and the best supported club in the land, Pirates draw their own support from the rural poor. These games are known to have attracted crowds of 100,000.
The derby has been marred by two major tragedies. In 2001, a stampede at Ellis Park in Johannesburg left 43 fans dead. Ten years earlier 42 supporters lost their lives in similar circumstances. The common enemy for both set of fans is the police - a symbol of repression of the blacks during the dark days of Apartheid. Otherwise, these matchups are played in a very friendly atmosphere, full of song and dance and complete with the most outrageous fan gear - from long, noisy trumpets known as ‘vuvuzelas’ to bogus sunglasses, masks and helmets.
The Cairo derby between Zamalek and Al Ahly is the biggest derby in the world because such are the mounting emotions on offer that the games are considered too big for Egyptian referees to handle and so European match officials are brought in. The fierce rivalry between the Cairo clubs took root in 1911 when Zamalek were formed to rival their older neighbours. While Ahly are the people's club, the middle class in society identify with Zamalek.
Don't rule out violence during clashes between the Red Devils (Ahly) and the Whites (Zamalek), which attract regular crowds of 100,000 at the Cairo International Stadium. Fights break out in the stands and also on the pitch. During the 100th Cairo derby, for instance, attacker Shikabala was fined and suspended by the Egyptian FA for his violent reactions to taunts.
Samm Audu, Goal.com International (Africa)
Some Other Notable Non-European Derbies
Palmeiras - Corinthians (Brazil)
Palmeiras - Sao Paulo (Brazil)
Atletico Mineiro - Cruzeiro (Brazil)
Barcelona - Emelec (Ecuador)
San Lorenzo - Huracan (Argentina)
Gimnasia - Estudiantes (Argentina)
Bolivar - The Strongest (Bolivia)
Alianza Lima - Universitario (Peru)
Olimpia - Cerra Porteno (Paraguay)
Santa Fe - Millonarios (Colombia)
Wydad - Raja (Morocco)
Club Africain - Esperance (Tunisia)
What are your views on this topic? Which derby do you believe to be the biggest in world football? Goal.com wants to know what YOU think...
Carlo Garganese
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