Fixtures such as England versus Scotland (the oldest international duel) are fraught with ancient grievances. In the Netherlands, traditional rivalries were between Catholic and Protestant (amateur) clubs. A longstanding rivalry in Scotland is the Glasgow derby between Catholic Celtic and Protestant Rangers. This never-ending face-off between certain clubs is an essential part of the game. What could be more glorious than victory over an arch-rival?
Rivalry
Besides religion, football also resembles (tribal) war. The game itself is a fight with rules, with a red card to disqualify those who get too physical. Rivalry between fans can escalate dramatically.
210 keer bekeken