Rome, the eternal city, is not only famous for its ancient ruins and rich history but also for its passionate love for football. The city is home to two major football teams, A.S. Roma and S. Lazio, that have a storied rivalry and a dedicated fan base.
Let’s take a closer look at these teams and their impact on the football scene in Rome.
The Rivalry: A. Roma vs S. Lazio
The rivalry between A. Lazio runs deep in the veins of Roman football fans. Known as the “Derby della Capitale” or the “Roman Derby,” matches between these two teams are intense and highly anticipated events.
A. Roma: Founded in 1927, A. Roma is one of the most successful football clubs in Italy.
Their team colors are maroon and gold, which they proudly wear on their iconic jerseys. The club plays their home matches at the Stadio Olimpico, a stadium they share with S. Lazio.
S. Lazio: Established in 1900, S. Lazio has a rich history within Italian football circles.
Their team colors are sky blue and white, reflecting the colors of Rome’s flag since ancient times.
The Stadio Olimpico
The Stadio Olimpico is one of the most iconic stadiums not just in Rome but also in Europe. It has been the home ground for both A.S Roma and S.S Lazio since its inauguration in 1953.
- Capacity: The stadium can hold up to 70,634 spectators during domestic league matches.
- Major Events: Stadio Olimpico has hosted numerous notable events including the FIFA World Cup in 1990 and the UEFA Champions League Final in 2009.
Notable Players and Achievements
Both A. Lazio have boasted some exceptional players throughout their history. Some notable players include:
- A. Roma: Francesco Totti, Daniele De Rossi, and Bruno Conti are just a few of the legends who have worn the maroon and gold jersey.
- S. Lazio: Alessandro Nesta, Pavel Nedved, and Miroslav Klose are among the greats who have graced the sky blue and white jersey.
These teams have had their fair share of success over the years. A. Roma has won three Serie A titles, while S.S Lazio has secured two Serie A titles along with multiple Coppa Italia victories.
The Impact on Roman Culture
Football is not merely a sport in Rome but a way of life that deeply influences its culture. The city comes alive during match days, with passionate supporters filling the streets in anticipation of the game.
The rivalry between A.S Lazio often transcends football itself and becomes a representation of social and cultural divisions within Rome. It’s not uncommon to see heated debates between fans that go beyond sportsmanship.
The Importance of Derby della Capitale
The Derby della Capitale showcases the true essence of Roman football culture. The intense rivalry between A.S Lazio brings out raw emotions among supporters, making it one of the most heated derbies in Italy.
The Derby has a significant impact on local businesses, with bars and restaurants packed with fans before, during, and after the match. The sense of camaraderie among supporters creates an atmosphere that is truly unique to Rome.
In conclusion, A. Lazio are the two major football teams based in Rome. Their fierce rivalry, iconic stadium, and passionate fan base have made a lasting impact not only on the city’s football scene but also on its culture and identity.
So if you find yourself in Rome during match day, don’t miss the opportunity to witness the passion and excitement that surrounds these teams.