5 footballing rivalries that are no more the same
Rivalries are something that make the experience for football fans around the world worthwhile. It shows how the sport is considered a religion in some parts of the world and in some cases the sport is driven by religion as well.
Several derbies have stood the test of time becoming a hallmark of the game. But the status of some have changed, either due to the cruel nature of circumstance or through the instability of clubs because of administrative reform.
Here are 5 footballing rivalries that are no more the same
5) Paris Saint Germain – Olympique Marseille
The PSG – Marseille rivalry is known as Le Classique in France and is one of the most decorated rivalries in the country. Unlike usual derbies it is not based on fans in a city divided, but on the fact that the two clubs are based out of the biggest cities in France.
Both teams are two of the most popular clubs in the country and are also the only two French clubs to have won a trophy in Europe. Like any rivalry Le Classique is a high tension affair. There are several abuses that are hurled between the two sets of supporters and increased security measures are taken each time the two teams face off.
In the past, the derby has decided several high profile occasions including domestic cup finals as well League positions. But in the 2000s, the clubs did not really see significant clashes as both teams had not been in peak form.
Since 2011, after PSG were taken over by the Qatari owners the rivalry sees PSG become the favourites in the derby regardless of whether it’s played home or away. Marseille are unable to compete with the financial capabilities of their rivals and we could see this as the beginning of a one-sided affair quite frequently from now on.