The Eternal City's Intense Rivalry: As Roma vs Lazio

Discover the History and Unknown Facts Behind One of Italy's Most Heated Football Rivalries.

It’s always exciting to watch football derbies, and the Rome Derby is no different. One of the fiercest rivalries in football, this derby between AS Roma and Lazio is ingrained in Italian football culture. The rivalry between the two clubs has a long and illustrious history that dates back to the early 1900s, and it has been marked by drama, fervour, and controversy.

The Early Years

Lazio was established in 1900, six years prior to the 1927 founding of AS Roma. The first official match between the two teams was played on December 8, 1929, and Lazio won 1-0 to establish themselves as the most popular football club in Rome.

It wasn’t until the 1970s, though, that the Rome Derby really took off. Both teams were at the pinnacle of their abilities and engaged in the most intense competition in Italian football during this time. On November 23, 1975, in front of over 70,000 spectators, Roma defeated Lazio 2-0 in the first derby of the decade.

The Rivalry Intensifies

The rivalry between the two clubs has grown increasingly heated over time, both on and off the pitch. The Stadio Olimpico, where both teams play their home games, has increased security measures because of the many incidents of violence and hooliganism that have occurred during the derby.

On November 11, 2017, one of the most significant derbies in recent memory occurred. In this game, Lazio defeated Roma 2-1 with a late goal. It was an exciting contest. The game was tainted by controversy, though, when Lazio supporters displayed a banner inside the stadium that showed Anne Frank sporting a Lazio jersey. Following widespread criticism of the banner, Lazio was fined and told to close a portion of their stadium for their upcoming home game.

Unknown Facts

Over the years, the Rome Derby has given rise to some incredible moments, but there are also several unfamiliar facts about this rivalry that are worth noting. For instance, in 2000, when over 84,000 spectators jammed the Stadio Olimpico to watch the two teams square off, the record for the highest attendance at a Rome Derby was established.

The fact that both teams have won the Italian Cup multiple times—Lazio seven times and Roma nine times—is another intriguing fact. The Serie A championship has also been won by both teams twice in their histories, with Roma winning it in 1983 and 2001 and Lazio winning it in 1974 and 2000.

Every season, football fans all over the world look forward to the Rome Derby. It is obvious that this rivalry will continue to enthral fans and motivate players for many years to come as we anticipate upcoming matches in the derby.