Let’s explore the best football leagues outside Europe’s borders.
European football has long been considered the zenith of the football world. However, the beautiful game thrives around the globe, and numerous leagues outside Europe are gaining international recognition.
In this article, we will explore the top ten football competitions outside Europe.
10- Botola Pro (Morocco)
Starting our list is Morocco’s Botola Pro. This league has a rich history dating back to 1915 and is dominated by Wydad Casablanca, AS FAR, and Raja Casablanca, holding 20, 13, and 12 titles, respectively. The Casablanca derby between Wydad and Raja is electrifying and is considered one of the most heated rivalries in African football.
9- Qatar Stars League
Next is the Qatar Stars League, known for its massive financial investments in the sport. The most successful club is Al Sadd SC, with 16 titles to their name. The biggest rivalry, known as the Qatar Clasico, is between Al Sadd SC and Al Rayyan SC, offering high-octane matches every season.
8- Australian A-League
The Australian A-League has been making strides in global football. Since its inception in 2004, Sydney FC has proven to be the most dominant, boasting five titles. The rivalry between Melbourne Victory and Adelaide United is the highlight of the competition’s calendar, drawing massive crowds and media attention.
7- Saudi Pro League
The Saudi Pro League has recently captured global attention, signing a host of world-class players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Sadio Mane. Al-Hilal is the record title holder with 18 championships. The Riyadh Derby between Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr is a gripping encounter that often determines the league winner.
6- K League (South Korea)
South Korea’s K League is next on the list. Established in 1983, the competition is dominated by Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors with nine titles. The Super Match, the country’s most significant football rivalry between FC Seoul and Suwon Samsung Bluewings, often showcases the best of Korean football.
5- Major League Soccer (MLS)
Major League Soccer (MLS) has been steadily rising in global prominence, especially with the recent addition of Lionel Messi to Inter Miami. LA Galaxy is the most successful club, with five MLS Cups to their name. The Battle of Cascadia between Seattle Sounders and Portland Timbers is a must-watch for any football fan in the U.S.
4- J League (Japan)
Japan’s J League has been a consistent producer of Asian football talents. Kashima Antlers lead the pack with eight titles since the competition’s inception in 1993. The Tamagawa Classico between Kawasaki Frontale and FC Tokyo is the league’s most thrilling derby, attracting significant viewership each season.
3- Liga MX (Mexico)
Liga MX is widely regarded as the strongest league in North America. Club América is the record holder with 13 titles. The Superclásico, a fierce rivalry between Club América and Guadalajara, is one of the most-watched matches in the continent, displaying Mexican football at its finest.
2- Argentine Primera División
The Argentine Primera División is one of the oldest and most competitive leagues outside Europe. River Plate and Boca Juniors, with 38 and 35 titles, respectively, are the most successful teams. Their match, known as the Superclásico, is one of the world’s most heated football rivalries, showcasing the passion and intensity of Argentine football.
1- Brazilian Serie A
Topping the list is the Brazilian Serie A, a league known for producing some of the world’s finest talents. Palmeiras holds the record with 11 championships. The Paulista derby, contested between Palmeiras and Corinthians, is one of the most intense rivalries in world football, embodying the vibrant spirit of Brazilian football.