French football has a rich history of fierce rivalries and heated derbies.
France is known for its football culture, and there are several fierce rivalries that have developed over the years. These rivalries often stem from regional, historical, or cultural differences, and they add a layer of excitement to French football. Here are the top 3 football rivalries in France.
3- Lyon vs Saint Etienne
The rivalry between Olympique Lyonnais and AS Saint-Etienne is one of the oldest and most heated in French football. These two teams are both located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France and have been battling it out since the 1950s. The matches between the two teams are known as the “Derby Rhône-Alpes,” and they always draw a passionate crowd.
2- Lyon vs Marseille
The rivalry between Olympique Lyonnais and Olympique de Marseille is another intense one in French football. These two teams have been competing against each other since the 1940s, and their matches are known as the “Choc des Olympiques” (Clash of the Olympiques). The rivalry intensified in the 2000s when Lyon dominated French football, winning seven consecutive Ligue 1 titles.
1- PSG vs Marseille
The rivalry between Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique de Marseille is arguably the biggest in French football. These two teams represent the two biggest cities in France, and their rivalry goes beyond football. The matches between the two teams are known as “Le Classique” and draw a lot of attention, both in France and around the world.
The competition between PSG and Marseille dates back to the 1970s, but it has intensified in recent years with PSG’s rise to dominance in French football. The two teams have faced each other in some heated matches, with red cards, penalties, and controversial calls adding to the drama.