Milan Derby
Foreign players or no foreign players?
That is a question that caused the split of Milan’s two famous soccer clubs, AC Milan and Inter Milan.
When they play against each other, the rivalry match is named The Milan Derby, also known as the Derby della Madonnina.
The origin story, socioeconomic statuses of the two fan bases, the varying levels of success throughout the years, and even a shared home stadium, make this rivalry rich in history and always fiercely contested, both on and off the pitch.
The Break Up
In 1908, an irreconcilable dispute caused a divide at the Milan Cricket and Football Club.
Should the club allow foreign players, or should it be exclusively for Italian players?
The disagreement was enough for a group to leave and create a new club, Football Club Internazionale Milano, commonly referred to as Inter or Inter Milan.
The Fans
Today, after many years of success and two of the world's most iconic kits, both clubs have millions of fans around the world.
In the past, however, Inter was seen as the club for Milan’s middle/upper class, while AC Milan was seen as the club for Milan’s working class.
The Kits
Another interesting aspect of each club and the rivalry is the iconic home kits.
Inter, nicknamed the Nerazzurri (black and blues), are famous for wearing black and blue stripes.
AC Milan, nicknamed the Rossoneri (red and blacks), are famous for wearing red and black stripes.
The Stadium
The clubs don't have to travel far to play against each other because they share the same stadium!
The 80,000 seat San Siro is one of the most historic stadiums in world football.
The Results
Of the official 222 matches between the two sides, Inter has the edge with 79 wins vs. AC Milan's 76. The other 67 ended in a stalemate.
Conclusion
The Milan Derby is one of world's soccer's greatest rivalry matches. The break up, the fans, the kits, the stadium, and the results.
Which Milanese club do you support: Inter Milan or AC Milan? Let us know in the comments below!
- Your friends at Pelé Soccer
