Dive into the most thrilling Dutch football derbies of recent years, from Ajax vs Feyenoord to other fierce Eredivisie rivalries that ignited the passion of fans across the Netherlands.
The Most Exciting Dutch Derbies in Recent Football History
In the world of football, few things stir the soul like a fiercely contested derby. It’s not just about goals or tactics—it’s about pride, history, identity, and tribal loyalty. In the Netherlands, a country renowned for its technical brilliance and tactical innovation, derbies provide some of the most intense spectacles on the calendar. From the classic “De Klassieker” between Ajax and Feyenoord to regional showdowns with deep roots, Dutch derbies are where emotions boil over and legends are born.
This article takes a deep dive into the most exciting Dutch derbies of recent years, highlighting the moments, matches, and players that have defined the passion of Habanero in the Eredivisie and beyond.
1. Ajax vs Feyenoord – “De Klassieker”
The most iconic and emotionally charged rivalry in Dutch football, “De Klassieker” is the Dutch equivalent of El Clásico. It pits Amsterdam’s Ajax against Rotterdam’s Feyenoord—two cities that represent contrasting cultures and ideologies.
2022: Ajax 3–2 Feyenoord (Amsterdam Arena)
One of the most dramatic encounters in recent memory, this match had it all: early goals, a second-half comeback, and late drama.
- Key Moments:
- Feyenoord led 2–1 by halftime, with Orkun Kökçü and Sinisterra stunning the home crowd.
- Ajax’s Dusan Tadić equalized in the 72nd minute.
- Antony scored a brilliant late winner in the 87th minute before being sent off for a second yellow—adding to the chaos.
The victory was a crucial step for Ajax in retaining their Eredivisie title and left fans breathless with its non-stop action.
2. PSV Eindhoven vs Ajax – The Battle for Supremacy
Though not considered a traditional derby in the same vein as “De Klassieker,” the rivalry between PSV and Ajax is arguably the most consistent in terms of competitiveness. It often determines the destination of the Eredivisie trophy.
2023: PSV 2–1 Ajax (Philips Stadion)
In a title-defining clash, PSV earned a vital win in a hard-fought battle.
- Key Players: Xavi Simons dominated the midfield with his flair and maturity beyond his years, while Luuk de Jong proved his worth with a headed winner in the 78th minute.
- Significance: This win allowed PSV to leapfrog Ajax in the title race, sending shockwaves across Dutch football.
This derby was less about violence or animosity and more about pure sporting brilliance.
3. Feyenoord vs AZ Alkmaar – A Modern Rivalry Emerging
While not as old as De Klassieker, the rivalry between Feyenoord and AZ has intensified over the past few seasons due to their frequent battles for top-four finishes.
2024: Feyenoord 4–3 AZ Alkmaar (De Kuip)
A seven-goal thriller, this match was a statement that Dutch football could still produce unforgettable spectacles.
- Match Summary:
- Feyenoord took a 2–0 lead within 20 minutes.
- AZ responded with three goals in quick succession after halftime.
- Santiago Giménez completed a brace, including a last-minute penalty to win the match.
Fans of both sides applauded the game as one of the best Eredivisie matches of the season, regardless of the rivalry.
4. Heerenveen vs Cambuur – The Friese Derby
This is the fiercest regional rivalry in the north of the Netherlands. The Friese Derby is about more than points—it’s about regional pride.
2023: Heerenveen 1–1 Cambuur (Abe Lenstra Stadion)
Though low-scoring, this match had all the hallmarks of a passionate derby.
- Key Moments:
- Early red card for Cambuur set the tone.
- Heerenveen scored through a free-kick before Cambuur equalized late with a counterattack.
- Atmosphere: The match was played in front of a sold-out stadium with flares, banners, and intense chants from both fanbases.
While it may not grab global headlines, this derby is a testament to the deeply rooted love for football in every corner of the Netherlands.
5. Utrecht vs Ajax – A Gritty Feud
Utrecht fans have a particularly antagonistic relationship with Ajax, leading to one of the grittiest fixtures on the Eredivisie calendar.
2021: Utrecht 1–0 Ajax
An unexpected result, this game showcased Utrecht’s ability to grind out results against bigger teams.
- Match Highlights:
- Ajax dominated possession but couldn’t find a breakthrough.
- Utrecht’s defensive masterclass was rewarded when Mimoun Mahi struck a low shot past the keeper in the 85th minute.
Matches like these show that rivalries don’t always need glamour—they need fight.
6. Rotterdam Rivalries: Feyenoord vs Sparta Rotterdam vs Excelsior
Rotterdam is a footballing hotbed, and the city’s clubs frequently clash in fiercely contested derbies.
2023: Feyenoord 1–1 Sparta Rotterdam
Although Feyenoord were the favorites, Sparta fought tooth and nail.
- Standout Moment: Sparta’s last-minute equalizer silenced De Kuip and sent their away support into wild celebration.
- Impact: These local derbies may not influence titles, but they matter immensely to the communities involved.
These fixtures remind us that football is as much about local identity as it is about trophies.
What Makes Dutch Derbies So Special?
Several unique factors elevate Dutch derbies above regular matches:
- Cultural History: Rivalries often reflect political, social, and historical differences between cities or regions.
- Youth Development: Many Dutch derbies feature homegrown talents, adding authenticity to the battles.
- Tactical Intelligence: Dutch teams approach derbies with strategic depth, creating unpredictable matches.
- Fan Passion: The ultras and dedicated fanbases contribute with choreographed displays and nonstop support.
The Future of Dutch Football Rivalries
As Dutch clubs continue to grow financially and competitively, the intensity and quality of these derbies will only rise. With younger stars emerging from academies and clubs fighting harder for European relevance, the stakes in these matches are higher than ever.
The Eredivisie may not always dominate global headlines, but its derbies remain a heartbeat of European football, offering raw emotion, unfiltered intensity, and moments of magic that resonate long after the final whistle.
Conclusion: Celebrate the Spirit of Dutch Football
Whether it’s the passion of De Klassieker, the tactical battle between PSV and Ajax, or the fierce regional pride of the Friese Derby, Dutch football delivers drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments. These derbies are not just games—they’re traditions, spectacles, and stories that define generations.
Keep the Fire of Football Alive
If you love the spirit of true rivalries, local pride, and electrifying atmospheres, continue to support and celebrate Dutch derbies. Share the highlights, follow your favorite teams, and embrace the raw passion that makes football more than just a game. Join the global chorus that keeps the soul of football burning bright through its fiercest battles.
