Olympiacos vs. Panathinaikos - Derby of the Eternal Enemies

 For my final blog I'll be going over one of the most intense rivalries in Greece and in Europe. Similar to the previous blogs, this rivalry transcends sport, rooted in deep cultural and regional differences. Olympiacos represents the city of Piraeus, a major port city whilst Panathinaikos is based in Athens, the capital of Greece. Olympiacos is associated with Piraeus's working-class identity and maritime culture , and Panathinaikos symbolises a more urban and cosmopolitan identity. Matches are often characterised by fiery displays utilising tifo's and pyro to choreograph visual shows to boost the players and the supporters. these displays are led by each clubs 'ultras' groups which are organised fan associations and also themselves play a role in the political dimension of the rivalry. Each group have strong political affiliations and use matches to promote their contrasting ideologies, further adding tension between the clubs and their supporters. Not only does this promote clashes between opposing fans but even the players. On this very evening for example, being the 22nd October, each team were set to play but the game was abandoned before the game had even kicked off as an Olympiacos fan had struck Panathinaikos defender Juankar with a firework and as a result, the Panathinaikos team refused to enter the pitch for kick off due to safety fears.

Both clubs have enjoyed great domestic success, both being the best two clubs in Greece by some distance. Whilst also both clubs have enjoyed consistent runs in both the UEFA Champions League, and Europa League throughout their histories. Although focusing on who's the better out the two themselves, it is clear that Olympiacos are. They have won 47 Super league titles compared to Panathinaikos who have won 20. Overall domestic honours Olympiacos have 80 compared to Panathinaikos's 43.

In summary, the Derby of the eternal enemies is a cultural and regional phenomenon that goes beyond football, reflecting historical, cultural and social differences in Greece. 






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