Top 10 best club soccer rivalries of all-time

Soccer is the most popular sport in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. In some matches, circumstances arise that ignite passions in players and fans that mean more than just numbers on a scoreboard.

These are the world’s all-time 10 best club rivalries.

10. Al-Ahly vs. Zamalek

Known as the Cairo Derby, these successful clubs have historically been the most influential teams in Africa. This fierce rivalry often decides the league and has been broadcast live to most Arab countries since the 1970’s.9. Ajax vs. Feyenoord

Holland’s “De Klassieker” pits the artists of Amsterdam against the laborers of Rotterdam. Deep seeded economic resentment heats this clash and is further stoked by the great Dutch player, Johan Cryuff, playing for both teams.

8. Napoli vs. Palermo

If we are talking about rivalry and vendetta, no one does it better than these Sicilian clubs. With historical significance rooted in the unification of Italy, the Derby delle Due Sicilie takes on an extra level of importance to its fans.

7. CSKA Sofia vs. Levski Sofia

These Bulgarian squads have a long history of violence, owing to their communist and liberal histories. A 1985 match saw the worst of it and brought about the temporary disbanding of both teams.6. América vs. Guadalajara

Regional strife in Mexico is best displayed in this clash of beloved teams. América represents the moneyed city dwellers while Chivas (Guadalajara) is for the country folk and commits to using only Mexican players.

5. Flamengo vs. Fluminense

With a tightly linked common history, these two cross-town rivals in Rio play to the largest crowds in club match history. The Maracanã Stadium, located in downtown Rio, hosted almost 195,000 spectators in 1963.

4. Liverpool vs. Manchester United

These popular teams represent the long tradition of civic pride in the blue-collar northwest of England. Historically speaking, the port workers of Liverpool have been battling the manufacturers of Manchester since 1888.

3. Boca Juniors vs. River Plate

This is what rivalry is all about. Successful Argentinian sides personify the working class struggle of Boca against the “Millonarios” of River.

2. Real Madrid vs. Barcelona

From the two largest cities in Spain come two of the most successful teams in club soccer history. Stocked with great players, this rivalry is always one to watch.

1. Celtic vs. Rangers

They say familiarity breeds contempt. These clubs have played almost 400 times in 124 years, giving this rivalry the top spot.