Historic Football Rivalries: Galatasaray vs. Fenerbahçe

May 27, 2022, by Jake Woodward

Galatasaray vs. Fenerbahçe

Regardless of the number of rivalries in world football, some are more striking and famous than others. Many belong to very popular leagues in countries where football tradition is part of a global market. However, others are very different and perhaps go unnoticed by international football fans. However, they have such intensity that hardly other football matches can reach. One of the best examples of rivalries comes from Turkey. It is so unique that besides the sporting passion, it has a cultural and geographical component that differentiates it. This is the so-called Kıtalararası Derby, whose translation is Intercontinental Derby. We are talking about the legendary showdown between two of Istanbul's great teams: Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray. As in any other great football rivalry, that of Turkey has the factors that we have already seen in other countries. In this rivalry, social classes, economic, and political differences face each other. Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe belong to the same city (Istanbul). But, each one has a completely different geographical relationship that makes this duel unique worldwide. One team represents the Asian zone and the other the European zone within the same city.

Galatasaray vs. Fenerbahçe: The Turkish Duel

The history of the two teams could not be more different. Fenerbahçe Spor Kulübü was founded in the Asian part of the city of Istanbul, specifically in the Kadıköy district, 115 years ago (1907). This multi-sports club also has volleyball and athletics teams, among others. This team has a larger amount of followers in the country. Also, this team represents the working classes of Istanbul. On the other hand, students from Galatasaray Lisesi High School founded Fenerbahçe¡’s great rival, Galatasaray Spor Kulübü, in 1905. Only young people belonging to wealthy families in Istanbul had access to this prestigious school.

Since its foundation, it was recognized as the team of the elites and the representative of the European part of Istanbul. So, these factors generated an automatic distancing from Fenerbahçe and its fans. They are two teams that, together with Besiktas, make up the so-called Trinity of Turkish football. But, throughout history, the rivalry between Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray has increased from their first match until today. The two teams have met in 393 matches.

Fenerbahçe has won 146 matches, Galatasaray 125, and 122 draws occurred. But, there is a negative aspect to this rivalry that has been going on for more than a century. It is the zeal and passion of the fans of both teams. This situation has crossed the limits of violence on many occasions. Sadly, it is usual that before, during, and after each match between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe, there are fights between the teams' supporters. These disputes keep the whole of Istanbul under tension, and authorities monitor possible episodes like the one that occurred in 2003 when a child was killed in one of the clashes between fans. This dark side can arise when a rivalry is as strong as the one that characterizes these Turkish teams. Thus, this is an example of what should never happen because of football fanaticism.

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