Historic Rivalries in African Football: A Complete Guide
African football has a rich history of intense rivalries that have captivated fans across the continent. These rivalries are not only about the beautiful game but also reflect the complex social, cultural, and political dynamics of the region. In this article, we will delve into the most iconic and enduring rivalries in African football.
The Cairo Derby: Al Ahly vs Zamalek
The Cairo Derby is one of the most intense and storied rivalries in African football. Al Ahly and Zamalek have been battling it out for supremacy in Egyptian football for over a century. Their matches are often referred to as the “Super Cup” and are watched by millions of fans worldwide.
- First match: 1910
Most successful team: Al Ahly (40 Egyptian league titles)
- Notable matches: 2007 African Champions League final, 2012 Egyptian Premier League title
The Soweto Derby: Kaizer Chiefs vs Orlando Pirates
The Soweto Derby is a fierce rivalry between two of South Africa’s most successful clubs. Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates have been battling it out for dominance in South African football for over 50 years. Their matches are often referred to as the “Battle of Soweto” and are watched by millions of fans worldwide.
- First match: 1971
- Most successful team: Kaizer Chiefs (7 PSL titles)
- Notable matches: 2009 CAF Confederation Cup final, 2012 Nedbank Cup final
The Tunisian Derby: Espérance vs Étoile du Sahel
The Tunisian Derby is a historic rivalry between two of Tunisia’s most successful clubs. Espérance and Étoile du Sahel have been battling it out for supremacy in Tunisian football for over 50 years. Their matches are often referred to as the “Derby of the Mediterranean” and are watched by millions of fans worldwide.
- First match: 1949
- Most successful team: Espérance (28 Tunisian league titles)
- Notable matches: 2007 CAF Champions League final, 2011 Tunisian Cup final
The Moroccan Derby: Raja vs Wydad
The Moroccan Derby is a fierce rivalry between two of Morocco’s most successful clubs. Raja and Wydad have been battling it out for dominance in Moroccan football for over 50 years. Their matches are often referred to as the “Derby of Casablanca” and are watched by millions of fans worldwide.
- First match: 1955
- Most successful team: Raja (14 Moroccan league titles)
- Notable matches: 2002 CAF Champions League final, 2013 Moroccan Throne Cup final
