THE INFAMOUS RIVALRY

by Karel Štícha 

The Derby of Prague's "S" is a famous football match between Sparta Prague and Slavia Prague. It is called the derby of "S" because the initial letter of both teams is S. But why is it so famous?

The most important reason is the quality of both teams who are considered as the best teams in Czech for many years. And it is undoubtedly true. As the only best teams in the Czech Republic (if not mentioning Plzen joining them just past few years) they regularly participate in international competitions such as the European League. This is what makes this derby so famous all around our nation.

Another reason for the popularity of this derby is it's history. Slavia was founded by intellectuals in 1892, unlike Sparta, which was founded 1893 in by working class. Since their first match between these first ever two clubs in the country they were rivals to life and death as it wasn't only about sport but fighting for different groups in society.

The first match was played in 29 March 1896 at the Imperial Meadow with a score of 0: 0. Sparta scored a goal, but referee Rössler-Orovsky called him off after the match because according to the rules back then both teams had to agree with the goals. The Slavia did not agree, and the goal was disallowed and the animosity was born.

Nowadays this derby attracts millions of Czech fans every year. It is one of the biggest sports events in our country and it is very interesting to realize how long this animosity has lasted and created great matches both for the players and spectators.