As football fans, we are always on the lookout for the most thrilling matches, the high-octane derbies that never fail to bring some excitement to the pitch. Africa boasts some of the most intense and fiercely competitive football rivalries on the planet, here are the top 5 football derbies on the African continent.
The Cairo Derby - Egypt
The Cairo Derby is one of the oldest and most bitter derbies in Africa. The rivalry between Al Ahly and Zamalek spans over 100 years and has seen some of the most iconic football matches ever played on the continent. It is played at the Cairo International Stadium which has a capacity of over 75,000 spectators, which barely contains the passion of the supporters of both teams.
Soweto Derby - SouthAfrica
The Soweto Derby is the biggest and most famous derby in South Africa, played between two of the country's most popular clubs, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs. The derby is played at the iconic FNB Stadium with a capacity of 95,000 supporters. The Soweto Derby is known for its pulsating atmosphere and colorful displays of passion from both sets of fans.
Casablanca Derby - Morocco
The Casablanca Derby is a fierce rivalry between two of Morocco's top clubs, Raja Club Athletic and Wydad Athletic Club. The two teams have shared 12 Casablanca derbies each, and the rivalry is regarded as one of the most intense in Africa, with both sets of fans creating a vibrant atmosphere at Stade Mohamed V.
Tunis Derby - Tunisia
The Tunisian Derby is another one of Africa's oldest football rivalries, dating back to the 1920s. Traditionally, the derby is contested between Club Africain and Espérance de Tunis - two of the most successful and most supported clubs in Tunisia. The derby is played at either Stade Olympique de Radès or the Stade 7 Novembre.
Algiers Derby - Algeria
The Algiers Derby is contested between two of Algeria's most traditional clubs, MC Alger and USM Alger. The clubs come from opposite halves of Algiers, and the rivalry between the two clubs is fierce with a long history that dates back to the 1940s. The derby is played in the 80,000 capacity Stade 5 Juillet 1962, and the atmosphere on derby day is electric.
In conclusion, these five derbies remind us of the most basic element of football: the fans. They are the ones who drive these rivalries to the top of the football sphere, and in doing so, create a passionate and memorable experience for all.