Top 20 Greatest Football Derbies In The World | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors

What is it about a derby game that captures the raw emotion & passion of football? They are much more than a normal game of football that’s for sure!

Here are some of the reasons that play an important role in setting up the rivalry required for a classic derby contest.

1) Location

Location is one of the most common reasons to set a big rivalry.

These games provide supporters with the opportunity to contest local bragging rights. As a result they are quite often the most important games on any supporter’s calendar.

Example: Everton vs Liverpool

2) Controversy

A controversial event can create great animosity between clubs.

One single event usually isn’t enough to create an enduring rivalry between clubs. However these events often fuel the flames between existing rivals.

Example: Luis Figo became most hated man in Catalonia in 2000 when he moved to Real Madrid

3) Religous

Religious derbies are definitely one of the most passionate in the world.

Example: The greatest example is "Old Firm" derby between Celtic (Catholic) and Rangers (Protestants)

We can number a lot of reasons but those were probably the biggest ones.

I hope you will enjoy reading this great slideshow!