Portugal’s Big 3 football teams – Porto, Benfica and Sporting – have been rivals for the ages. Their matches against each other are not just games; they’re epic battles filled with passion, pride, and incredible football. This spring, there are a few derbies you’ve got to keep an eye on. Let’s check them out!
Porto vs Benfica - O Clássico (3 March)
Kicking things off on 3 March, we’ve got Porto facing Benfica. This match is huge! Porto and Benfica are the titans of Portuguese football in recent decades, having shared all but 4 Portuguese championship titles between them in the last 42 years. When they clash, it’s not just about winning a game; it’s about making a statement. Fans are super passionate, and the atmosphere is electric. You can expect some top-notch football from both sides.
O Clássico is an ongoing rivalry that started in 1912. Since then, the teams met over 250 times. Porto leads with 101 victories so far.
Benfica vs Sporting - Derby de Lisboa (29 February, 3 April and 7 April)
Next up, get ready for a triple dose of excitement as Benfica and Sporting face off three times including twice in one week in early April. These matches are known as the Derbí de Lisboa (Lisbon Derby), or the Derbí Eterno (Eternal Derby), and they’re a big deal because Benfica and Sporting are both huge clubs from Portugal’s capital city. Imagine the whole city buzzing with rivalry vibes! These games are intense, with both teams giving their all to prove who’s the boss of Lisbon.
The rivals first met in 1907. Since then. they played more than 300 games. Benfica is in the lead with 138 wins so far.
Porto vs. Sporting - Dragões vs Leões (28 April)
Wrapping up our spring derbies, we’ve got Porto vs. Sporting on 28 April. This matchup is another classic rivalry, pitting the north against the capital. Porto and Sporting have a long history of memorable clashes, and this one promises to be no different. It’s the perfect game to end the spring season on a high note, and could have a huge bearing on the title race, as Sporting aim to win their second championship in four years.
The Dragões vs Leões has been ongoing since 1922, with 247 games played ever since. Porto leads with 91 wins and the most humiliating victory, beating Sporting 10-1 in 1936.
Why watch?
You might wonder, “Why should I follow these games?” Well, apart from the incredible football on display, these derbies are a showcase of Portugal’s rich football culture. The rivalries go deep, and they bring out the best (and sometimes the craziest) in both the players and the fans. It’s a chance to see some of the most talented players in Portugal go head-to-head, in matches with big implications for the league standings or cup competitions.
Plus, there’s something special about watching a game where you know everyone on the field is giving it their all, fueled by decades of rivalry and the cheers of passionate fans. It’s football at its most thrilling, spiced up by exciting betting opportunities at Vwin and other bookmakers.
So, there you have it – a spring packed with top-tier Portuguese football derbies. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of one of these teams or just love watching great football matches, these derbies are not to be missed. Mark your calendars for 29 February, 3 March, 3 April, 7 April, and 28 April. Get ready for some intense action, jaw-dropping goals, and the kind of football drama that only comes along only a few times in a season.
