El Gran Derbi Preview by Unwanted FC

Ahead of this weekend's El Gran Derbi (The Great Derby), which pits Sevilla FC against Real Betis Balompié, we take a look back at how this fierce rivalry has been shaped.

With around 700,000 people in Seville, this isn't the kind of place (which is the case in most places in Spain) where there are Real Madrid and FC Barcelona supporters' everywhere. It is just them, the two local teams, and they mean everything.

Upon visiting the beautiful city, we felt a massive split. Like, properly divided. Half of the city is for Real Betis Balompié, half of it is for Sevilla Fútbol Club. Ask any local, they’ll have a few strong opinions to give.

You either bleed red or green here. 

A City Divided

Sevilla FC were the first established football club of the city, founded in 1890 by the upper class - mainly by British expats and young men of Spanish origin. In 1914 there had been an internal clash at Sevilla FC over the decision of rejecting players from standard working class areas. This was how the establishment of Real Betis Balompié came about.

Because of these historical events dating back to the very beginning, there is this image of Betis representing the humble working class, the people from the smaller towns around the city. 

Sevilla being based in Nervión, a wealthier part of the city with more power, people therefore portray an image of the typical señor in his suit and tie, going about his business.

The ‘Sevillista’ fans are more demanding, with much more ambition to win. Whilst the ‘Beticos’ follow a unique Manquepierda philosophy, which stands for; 

‘I don’t care if we win or not - I'll always be part of the team.’

With the rivalry dating back to over a century ago (the first match being held in 1915), spectators have never been short of drama. 

Betis Copa Del Rey Success

Traditionally, Sevilla celebrated more glory over their noisy neighbours. Taking the lead in head-to-head results with 65 wins to date over Betico’s count of 40. 

Betis has also faced some darker times in the past, with relegations as recent as the 2008-09 season & in the 2013-14 season.

However, Real Betis has since gone from strength to strength. Qualifying for the Europa League, and reaching the Copa del Rey semi finals in 2019.

The remarkable journey hit its peak in April this year, when they became Copa del Rey champions. It was their first trophy in 17 years, and boy did it mean something. 

In the lead up to the game that week, the entire city was green. We noticed that the people on the streets all seemed to be backing Betis. No Sevilla fans in sight. 

Although excited, you could sense a bit of nervous tension as well. Perhaps it was the Manquepierda attitude downplaying the occasion.

For the cup final to be held in the city of Seville, this could only be a story you could have dreamt of.

Sevilla FC Icons

For Sevilla, their consistent performances in the La Liga meant that it attracted many high profile players to come through the doors. 

Legendary Croatian forward Davor Suker who joined in 1991, spent five years at Sevilla scoring 90 goals in 177 games. During Sukers time in Red & White, there was also a year where he was joined by the great Diego Maradona upon returning to football after a 15 month suspension for drug offenses.

In more recent times, the Sevilla FC fans fell in love with recognisable players by the likes of Frederic Kanoute (136 goals in 289 matches), Jesus Navas (31 goals, 86 assists in 376 matches) & Jose Antonio Reyes (30 goals in 195 matches). 

Real Betis Icons

A true club legend & respected by so many, is Joaquín. Not only does he hold the record for most games played for Real Betis, he is also up there for most games played in the La Liga. No doubt, one of the most loved players by the Beticos to this day. 

Another cult hero is Ruben Castro. Over the course of 2010-2018, Castro played 260 games and scored 136 goals making him the clubs all-time highest goal scorer. A crucial asset when they achieved promotion back into the La Liga in 2014-15.

Into more recent times, we saw a short but sweet spell from Héctor Bellerín. His childhood club which his Father supported, this became a dream move. His last game for the green & white would see him lift the Copa del Rey trophy. 

Other notable players in form right now include Borja Iglesias, Nabil Fekir & Sergio Canales - who will no doubt have their part to play this coming weekend.

The sun shines almost all year round in Seville, so temperatures are sure to flare when the derby comes around. With respect and admiration coming from the whole of Spain, the rest of the world is beginning to take notice of this big fixture. 

Playing at home in the Estadio Benito Villamarín and sitting 5th on the table, Betis are favourites. Sevilla FC are off to a slower start, positioned in 16th place. 

Be sure to get up early on Monday morning for the 5AM AEST kick off. This is not one to be missed.