Ranking the Top 15 Biggest Derbies in British Football

Derby matches possess a distinct intensity that sets them apart, causing knees to weaken and blood to pump with fervor. These clashes, from the North London derby to the all-Manchester affair in the Premier League, captivate fans with their heated rivalries. Even lower down in the English football pyramid, the rivalries remain equally scintillating, if not more so.

With that in mind, we embark on the bold task of ranking the top 18 British football derbies in the men's game. We acknowledge that this subject is delicate, as every fan holds their own derby in the highest regard, with unwavering passion and significance. We respect that deeply. However, we aim to objectively assess these rivalries, considering factors such as fan atmosphere, historical importance, the matches themselves, and the gravity of the rivalry. It is important to note that each club can only feature once, with their primary geographical derby taking precedence. Thus, certain notable derbies, like Manchester United vs Liverpool, Chelsea vs Tottenham Hotspur, and various versions of the East Midlands derby, may not be included.

We understand that our rankings are subjective, shaped by the opinions of the Betimate. We hope to provide a comprehensive overview of the most captivating match-ups in British football. So, brace yourselves and prepare for some contentious choices, as we delve into the 18 finest derbies that ignite the passion of fans across the nation.

15. Exeter City vs Plymouth Argyle

Devon derby

This underrated gem of a rivalry consistently surpasses expectations when it comes to discussions about the best rivalries in English football. Despite not always receiving the recognition it deserves on a national scale, the clash between Devon's premier sides never fails to captivate the county and its passionate football fans. It's about more than just three points when these two teams meet.

The rivalry dates back to 1908 when Plymouth Argyle and Exeter City first locked horns in a Southern League encounter, with the Grecians emerging as 2-1 victors. However, in the long and storied history of this fixture, Plymouth Argyle currently hold the bragging rights, having secured nine more victories than their counterparts.

14. West Bromwich Albion vs Wolverhampton Wanderers

Black Country derby

Recent events have served as a stark reminder of the deep-rooted animosity between fans of West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers. The Black Country derby, often overlooked, has now been thrust into the spotlight following a temporary suspension of a match due to a mass brawl among supporters in the stands.

This incident exemplifies the bitter rivalry that exists between the two sets of fans. Throughout their history, West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers have clashed on 163 occasions, with the Baggies currently holding the advantage in their head-to-head record. They have emerged victorious in 65 matches, while Wolves have claimed 54 wins. However, the tides can quickly change, and with the fluctuating fortunes of both clubs, Wolves may narrow the gap in the future.

13. Blackburn Rovers vs Burnley

East Lancashire derby

Indeed, this is a classic English derby that evokes a sense of nostalgia. The flame of the amusingly nicknamed 'El Lanclasico' has burned brightly since the first meeting between Burnley and Blackburn Rovers in 1888. Interestingly, Accrington Stanley, situated between the two, is often overlooked as a rival, as Burnley and Blackburn Rovers consider each other their primary foes in the English football pyramid.

The northwest of England is known for its numerous football rivalries, but few compare to the magnitude of the rivalry between Burnley and Blackburn Rovers. Currently, Burnley holds the upper hand, having reestablished their presence in the top division. As a result, the highly anticipated East Lancashire derby has yet to be scheduled, leaving fans eagerly awaiting its return to their diaries. The intensity and history of this rivalry make it a standout fixture in English football.

12. Portsmouth vs Southampton

South Coast derby

Sometimes, the intensity, tension, and significance of a rivalry can be felt more than it can be measured by history, statistics, or recent records. Such is the case with the South Coast derby. The competition for a top-ten finish in the league is fierce, preventing us from placing it among the elite derbies of British football. However, the passionate chants from both Portsmouth (Pompey) and Southampton fans almost single-handedly elevate it to that status. The two cities, with a history intertwined by war, tragedy, violence, and football, present a derby worth watching. The story of their rivalry, from its early chapters to the current landscape, is complex and difficult to comprehend.

Currently, Portsmouth leads in League One, while Southampton is pushing for promotion back to the top flight. Journalist Dean Jones suggests that Ryan Fraser could play a significant role in Southampton's promotion ambitions. If they fail to achieve their goal, we could witness the first match between the two teams since 2019, adding another chapter to this compelling and storied rivalry.

11. Derby County vs Nottingham Forest

East Midlands derby

While it is true that Nottingham Forest is located just a short distance across the Trent River from Notts County, let's be frank and acknowledge that their rivalry with Derby County holds far more allure. These two Midlands clubs have frequently found themselves battling it out in the Championship in recent years, adding to the excitement. What further highlights the magnitude of this rivalry is the fact that a coveted trophy, the Brian Clough Trophy, is awarded to the winner of each encounter.

With Forest currently competing in a division two levels above their rivals, some may argue that the question of superiority has been settled once and for all. However, with Forest holding a mere five-win advantage in their head-to-head record, there are certainly Rams fans who would vehemently disagree with such a notion. While both Forest and Derby share a rivalry with Leicester City, it is widely regarded that the clash between Forest and Derby is the most captivating of the three encounters.

The Nottingham Forest vs. Derby County derby is a match that never fails to deliver in terms of excitement, passion, and significance. It is a fixture that captures the attention of football fans nationwide and is highly anticipated by both sets of supporters.

10. Sheffield United vs Sheffield Wednesday

Steel City derby

Sheffield, one of England's historic cities, is home to two iconic football clubs, making the battles between Sheffield United (the Blades) and Sheffield Wednesday (the Owls) naturally fierce, much like the city's famous steel industry. This clash, known as the 'Steel City Derby,' has a rich history, with Sheffield United holding the advantage in their head-to-head record over the course of their 131 meetings.

What sets this rivalry apart from many others is the amicable relationship between the sets of fans outside of matchday. They often collaborate for the greater good of the city. However, all the smiles and collaborations are set aside when the highly anticipated derby match comes around. The passion and intensity on display during these rare encounters make it a standout fixture in English football.

9. Hearts vs Hibernian

Edinburgh derby

The capital city of a nation known for its fervent dedication to football is home to two proud clubs founded in the 1870s. This sets the stage for one of the longest-running and most passionate derbies in the sport. Edinburgh, a city that breathes football, has been the shared residence of both clubs for quite some time, with their first encounter taking place on Christmas Day in 1875.

Since that fateful match, 662 games have followed, with just over half of them (337) being competitive fixtures. Whether it's a friendly or a match of significant importance, one thing is for certain: the intensity and passion displayed on the pitch will rival that of a World Cup final. The Edinburgh derby is a showcase of the unwavering commitment and dedication of both sets of fans, making it a truly special fixture in the world of football.

8. Millwall vs West Ham United

Dockers derby

There's no denying that the Millwall vs West Ham rivalry is one of the biggest derbies in British football. It's a fixture that is widely recognized and known by football fans across the nation, and even your grandmother is likely aware of its significance. While there have been only three clashes between the teams since 2005, and some may be content with that, it would be remiss not to include the Dockers derby in our top 10 list.

Despite the infrequency of their meetings in recent years, it's impossible not to be in awe of the intensity and passion that this rivalry embodies. The rivalry would undoubtedly climb higher on the list if the two teams faced each other more regularly. So, come on Millwall, let's see you get promoted and reignite this fierce derby!

7. Manchester City vs Manchester United

Manchester derby

The Manchester derby may have experienced fluctuations in its intensity in recent years, but there is no denying that it remains one of the most high-profile and closely contested rivalries in football. Manchester City's resurgence since their takeover in 2008 has added a new level of significance to this clash. While the atmosphere within the stadiums may not rank among the top five, the Manchester derby is filled with quality, history, and blockbuster entertainment.

Over the years, there have been numerous instances of animosity between players, such as Mario Balotelli's ill-fated encounter with Nemanja Vidic. While some Manchester United fans may argue that their fiercest rivalry lies with Liverpool, it is undeniable that the desire to be the biggest and best in a football-obsessed city like Manchester fuels the intensity of this derby. The Manchester derby brings together two clubs striving for supremacy and carries with it a unique and compelling allure.

6. Cardiff City vs Swansea City

South Wales derby

Although the stadiums of Swansea City and Cardiff City are located around 40 miles apart, the South Wales derby is a clash filled with passion, determination, and intense competitiveness. The battle for dominance in the Land of Dragons brings together two giants of Welsh football, and the rivalry between them is fierce.

When Swansea and Cardiff faced off in the Premier League for the first time in the 2012/13 season, it felt like a momentous occasion, with the English top flight witnessing a new, chest-pumping derby. The rift between the two clubs is evident, and the atmosphere surrounding their encounters is electric.

Currently, Swansea City holds the edge in their head-to-head record, giving them the right to hold their heads high. The South Wales derby is a spectacle that showcases the rich footballing history and passion of Wales, making it a standout fixture in the footballing calendar.

5. Everton vs Liverpool

Merseyside derby

Liverpool is a city that lives and breathes football, and the Merseyside derby between Liverpool and Everton is a testament to that. The rivalry between these two clubs is known for the electric atmosphere it generates, drawing the attention of the world. Since the 1962/63 season, the Merseyside derby has been a fixture that never fails to ignite passions.

It is a shame, however, that in the 21st century, Liverpool has been the dominant force in the fixture, winning the majority of the encounters. Despite the one-sided nature of recent results, the Merseyside derby is filled with intense rivalry and can even divide families, with loyalties split between the home and away ends.

The proximity of Goodison Park and Anfield, separated only by the green of Stanley Park, adds to the intensity of the rivalry. The affinity of the fans to their respective clubs is unparalleled, creating an atmosphere like no other. The Merseyside derby is a clash that captures the essence of Liverpool's footballing passion and heritage.

4. Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur

North London derby

The North London derby between Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal is a guaranteed source of entertainment. With both teams typically vying for a top-four spot, the clash between these two sides with passionate fan bases never fails to deliver. The significance of the derby is immense for both sets of fans, and the palpable rivalry and excitement it generates draw in neutrals from around the world.

Over the course of 194 games, the North London derby has provided countless thrilling moments. Each encounter is filled with intensity and drama, captivating the attention of football fans worldwide. This season's derby was no exception, featuring an own goal, penalty, a brace from Heung-min Son, and even some banter between James Maddison and Bukayo Saka. It's a fixture that promises excitement and entertainment, making it a must-watch for fans and neutrals alike.

3. Aston Villa vs Birmingham City

Second City derby

While Arsenal vs Tottenham and Everton vs Liverpool may have their own glamour and significance, the Second City derby between Aston Villa and Birmingham City surpasses them with its hostility, suspense, and vintage rivalry. This fixture is known for its intense atmosphere and the battle between two historic clubs that is ingrained in the sporting culture of Birmingham.

The Second City derby is a must-watch for any football fan seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience. It showcases the passion and pride of the Brummie sport, leaving spectators wanting to soak in the electric atmosphere. For a while, the two clubs were on a similar level, whether in the Championship or the Premier League. However, Aston Villa has now emerged as the dominant force, with the added accolade of European football. The Second City derby is a deserving standout fixture, highlighting the rich footballing history and fierce competition within Birmingham.

2. Newcastle United vs Sunderland

Tyne-Wear derby

The Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle United and Sunderland is a clash that embodies everything a football rivalry should be. With two iconic stadiums, passionate fan bases, rich histories, and a tradition of entertaining football, this fixture holds a special place in the hearts of football fans.

While it is unfortunate to see these two legendary clubs currently separated by multiple leagues, it does not diminish the status of the Tyne-Wear derby as the ultimate rivalry in English football. Both teams have had their fair share of success in the derby, making it a closely contested affair.

The recent revival of the Tyne-Wear derby after an eight-year hiatus saw Newcastle United claim a victory in the FA Cup, allowing them to edge ahead in the head-to-head record. However, Sunderland fans will undoubtedly be eagerly awaiting the next opportunity to seek revenge.

1. Celtic vs Rangers

Old Firm derby

There is no denying that the Old Firm derby between Celtic and Rangers is widely regarded as one of the ultimate derbies in the world of football. With two giants of the sport sharing a city that lives and breathes football, the clashes between these two teams are a spectacle like no other.

The Old Firm derby is more than just a football match; it is a clash of passionate and devoted fan bases. The supporters of Celtic and Rangers wear their hearts on their sleeves, creating an atmosphere that is electric and intense. The rivalry between the two clubs goes beyond the football pitch, with a growing distaste between the fans.

While the football itself may not always be the sole focus, the Old Firm derby is a captivating event that draws in football fans from all over the world. It is a fixture that deserves a place on every football fan's bucket list, as it showcases the essence of passion, rivalry, and the unique spectacle that is the Old Firm derby.