Intense MLS Rivalries: Clubs, History, and Famous Matches

Los Angeles FC Vs. The LA Galaxy

Familiarity absolutely breeds contempt when it comes to these two football clubs, which both operate within just a few miles of one another. LAFC versus the LA Galaxy is a matchup that is eagerly awaited each year. 

The clash between these two teams earned the nickname “El Trafico.” This name is a fun nod to both the California Clásico (the rivalry between LAFC and the San Jose Earthquakes) and something that all Angelenos know all too well: traffic. Traffic in Los Angeles is infamously common, but gridlock on the days these two teams face off is truly something to behold.

The rivalry between the two teams began in 2018 and was cemented into history with the LA Galaxy’s introduction of renowned striker Zlatan Ibrahimović. Though he has since retired, Ibrahimović’s powerhouse status showed us all that these two teams are ones to watch.

Games between the LA Galaxy and LAFC tend to be high-scorers where goalkeepers earn their paychecks, meaning that there’s never a dull moment when fans are looking on from the stands. Be sure to get your tickets in advance since these thrilling games often sell out fast.

New York City FC vs. The New York Red Bulls

While we’re on the subject of cross-town football feuds, we had to mention the New York Red Bulls and NYCFC. Their rivalry has been dubbed “The Hudson River Derby” because where LA is known for its traffic, New York is known for the Hudson River, apparently. 

The naming of the rivalry aside, games between these clubs are always memorable. It’s no secret that NYC has some of the most enthusiastic fans in the US. Just look at Yankees fans. But rampant fanaticism isn’t the only thing that the New York soccer scene shares in common with the Yankees.

In fact, New York City FC actually plays at Yankee Stadium, helping this arena become an even more crucial part of the Bronx. The New York Red Bulls, meanwhile, play at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey.

Watching these teams duke it out is a lesson in what makes New York so tough. Since this rivalry is one of the most talked about in the entire league, they are also an integral part of rivalry week.

The New York Red Bulls vs. D.C. United

That’s right; there’s room in the New York Red Bulls’ hearts for multiple rivalries at a time. When they aren’t plotting how to defeat NYCFC from their base in New Jersey, the Red Bulls also have to contend with D.C. United. This rivalry is still going strong as ever since NYC took the victory against D.C. in round four of the US Open Cup in both 2022 and 2023.

Also referred to as “The Atlantic Cup,” east coasters are obsessed with this epic matchup, and it’s easy to see why. D.C. fans are optimistic that the Atlantic Cup could go their way next year, while fans of the Red Bulls are eager to keep their streak going. While next year’s results are up in the air, it’s clear that games between these two clubs are always ones for the ages.

CF Montréal vs. Toronto FC

Heading a bit further north, we’re treated to a battle known as The Canadian Classique. Canadians might have a reputation for sometimes being more polite than their American counterparts, but all that is put to the side when match time comes around.

Montréal’s soccer team has been operating in different leagues since 1992. Toronto has been around since 2005. Even though CF Montréal has been in business for longer, Toronto FC is still a worthy opponent once they get out on the field.

Canadians and Americans alike are glued to their seats when these teams enter the pitch. Whether those seats are on a couch or (preferably) at the stadium itself, it’s going to be a match to remember.

The Houston Dynamo vs. FC Dallas

It isn’t hard to understand why this matchup is called the Texas Derby. This particular rivalry has been going strong since 2006, and since then, both the Houston Dynamo and FC Dallas have had their fair share of wins.

The rivalry started in earnest after a full-out brawl occurred on the field in 2007. Two players from the opposing teams kicked and hit one another during the infamous game. Even after suspensions were issued and fines were paid, the rivalry was never fully put to bed.

Seattle Sounders vs. the Portland Timbers

The Cascadia Cup is a mainstay of soccer fans located in the Pacific Northwest. While the cup includes the Seattle Sounders, the Portland Timbers, and the Vancouver Whitecaps, we’re choosing to highlight the first two teams. 

Before the MLS even existed, there was the North American Soccer League (NASL for short). That is where the rivalry between Seattle and Portland first — pun very intended — kicked off in 1975. 

If you count games across all five leagues that Seattle and Portland have played in, Seattle has more wins than Portland. If you only count games in the MLS, on the other hand, Portland wins out.

Though this rivalry spans multiple decades, it still feels as fresh as ever.

Columbus Crew vs. FC Cincinnati

Even if this impassioned rivalry wasn’t enough to earn a spot on our list, the name alone deserves a mention. The “Hell Is Real Derby” (or the Ohio Derby, if you don’t like fun) is newer to the MLS scene, but it’s made quite a splash in the short time it has been in action.

The memorable name comes from a billboard that can be found while driving from Columbus to Cincinnati that garnered a cult (or occult) following. After FC Cincinnati won their first US Open Cup against Louisville in 2017, they were ready to face the Columbus Crew. 

Cincinnati then went on to win their first game one-nil. Ever since then, their rivalry has burned bright in the mind of every Midwestern soccer fan.

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Get the Soccer Ball Rolling

There is so much more to soccer, fútbol, or anything else you’d like to call it than just the World Cup. In reality, there are seemingly endless rivalries to revel in right here in North America. MLS teams span the entirety of the US as well as other parts of North America, meaning it’s easy to get in on the fun. Who knows? Your team might even make it to the MLS Cup.

If you’re a soccer fan who’s never seen a game in person, or if you can’t get enough of cheering in the stands with your fellow soccer lovers, there’s no time to see a game like the present.

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