Biggest Rivalries in Mexican Football

Mexican fans tend to wear their hearts on their sleeve and that is witnessed none more so than when it is derby day. Liga MX hosts some of the most bitter yet exciting rivalries in the world, so let us dive into the games that you need to pay attention to.

When reviewing the Clásicos of Mexico, many of them revolve around the quote-on-quote 'big four' which includes: Club América, Chivas, Pumas UNAM and Cruz Azul. Whilst the emergence of quality in the north with Los Rayados and Tigres becoming rising forces in their own rights.

5. Clásico Capitalino (Pumas UNAM vs Club América)

We begin with the "Capital Classic" with two of the big three clubs from Mexico City. Pumas are a side that has underachieved in recent years, failing to win a league title since 2011, whilst América are coming off the back of back-to-back league triumphs. The origins of these two historic clubs could not be much more different. Pumas represents the biggest university in the club, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, whilst América stemmed from wealth and power, being owned by the biggest media outlet in Mexico, Televisa. This culture clash is often seen on the pitch with Las Águilas known for making high-profile signings, while Pumas rely on its academy and elite scouting to earn success.

4. Clásico Joven (Cruz Azul vs Club América)

Another fierce rivalry involving Las Águilas is their bitter clash with Cruz Azul. While the animosity between La Maquina and Pumas continues to build, it’s Cruz Azul’s recent history with América that truly stands out. Unlike other long-standing rivalries, the Clásico Joven didn’t spark into life until 1971, when Cruz Azul relocated to the capital after seven years in the neighbouring state of Hidalgo. Following the move, Los Azules became a powerhouse in Mexican football, frequently meeting América in the latter stages of cup competitions and playoffs.

Their latest chapter gripped the nation in May this year, when they faced off in the 2024 Clausura final, with América edging a narrow victory. In response, Cruz Azul are on the hunt for revenge, kicking off their campaign with a 4-1 demolition of América, setting their sights firmly on an 11th Liga MX title, just four behind their bitter city rivals.

3. Clásico Tapatío (Chivas Guadalajara vs Atlas)

The first rivalry outside of the capital takes place in the cosmopolitan city of Guadalajara, between Chivas and Atlas. With over 100 years of history, this clash in Mexico's second-largest city goes far beyond what happens on the pitch. Reflecting the bitter nature of their relationship, Chivas boasts 12 Liga MX titles, while Atlas endured a 70-year wait between their first and second league victories, finally breaking the drought in 2021. This trophy disparity is mirrored in their fan bases: Chivas enjoys support across the country, while Atlas’ following is largely regional.

What both clubs share, however, is their prestigious youth academies, ensuring that the rivalry often begins from a young age. Chivas has produced some of Mexico’s greatest talents, including Javier Hernández, Carlos Salcido, and Carlos Vela, while Rafa Márquez, Andrés Guardado, and Jared Borgetti all emerged from the ranks of Atlas.

2. Clásico Regio (Monterrey vs Tigres UANL)

In the battle of the north, Los Rayados and Tigres stand as two of Mexico’s rising forces, fiercely competing not just with the rest of the country but with each other. Before 2010, Los Tigres had managed only two Liga MX titles, but their recent success has catapulted them into the ranks of Mexico’s most decorated clubs. Now with eight Liga MX trophies to their name, they’ve overtaken their city rivals, while Monterrey has struggled to clinch a league title since 2019.

In response, Los Rayados have made some high-profile signings to shift the momentum, bringing in talents like Sergio Canales, Óliver Torres, and Luis Ocampos from La Liga. There’s a growing sense in Monterrey that success is just around the corner, especially after they defeated their city rivals 4-2 in their latest Apertura clash. As both teams battle it out at the top of the league ahead of the upcoming playoffs, will we witness a showdown for the title? Share your thoughts!

1. Clásico Nacional (Chivas Guadalajara vs Club América)

The biggest rivalry of them all is El Clásico de los Clásicos: Chivas vs. Club América. Ranked by FourFourTwo as the 20th most significant rivalry in the world, the Clásico Nacional is a fixture that resonates deeply with fans across the country. This rivalry represents a clash of social classes—a conflict between wealth and poverty, and an ideological battle between nationalism and globalism. Every Mexican has a stance on this fierce competition.

While other rivalries often stem from a struggle for dominance within a specific region, this one is rooted in a fundamental hatred for opposing ideologies. América embodies the glitz and glamour of Mexico. Owned by a major media conglomerate, they boast the most successful record in the country’s domestic scene and consistently attract the finest talent from around the globe.

In contrast, Chivas has a different story. While they hold the second-most Liga MX titles, trailing only behind América, they have achieved this feat using exclusively Mexican players. Like a select few clubs worldwide, Chivas relies on its own academy system and scouting team to cultivate the best domestic talent.

When these two teams clash, the battles extend beyond the pitch. Fans and players alike share a mutual disdain for those wearing the opposing colours. The outcomes of these matches carry immense weight; they are not merely a reflection of one’s mood but also a statement of support for a particular ideology.

While other rivalries are emerging throughout the country, none can compare to the intensity of América vs. Chivas. Even this season, with both clubs struggling in the league (sitting 10th and 7th, respectively), all eyes are on their encounters—whether at the legendary Estadio Azteca or Chivas' Estadio Akron—to see how the drama unfolds.

Which are your favourite rivalries in Mexico? Let us know!