Explore the most intense Eredivisie rivalries of 2025. From Ajax vs. Feyenoord to rising regional feuds, Dutch football never fails to deliver drama.

The Most Intense Eredivisie Rivalries in 2025

The Eredivisie, the Netherlands’ top-tier football league, is famed not just for developing world-class talent but also for its fierce rivalries. These matchups transcend the sport itself, often fueled by decades of competition, cultural divides, political histories, and fan passion. In the 2024/25 season, the intensity of these Eredivisie rivalries has reached new levels, with title races, European qualification battles, and pride on the line.

From the legendary “De Klassieker” between Ajax and Feyenoord to regional grudge matches that stir local pride, Dutch football continues to thrive on the drama of competition. In this article, we’ll explore the most intense Eredivisie rivalries in 2025, why they matter, and how they shape the Lgd gaming malaysia landscape.

Why Rivalries Matter in Football

Rivalries are the lifeblood of football. They bring emotional stakes to the game, spark memorable moments, and drive clubs to elevate their performance. In the Eredivisie, these rivalries not only reflect footballing traditions but also serve as cultural events that define a club’s identity.

Some key reasons rivalries remain vital:

• Fan engagement: Derbies and rivalry matches generate higher attendance and online interaction.

• Player motivation: Even in mid-table battles, rivalries bring out top performances.

• Club identity: Matches against historic rivals often define a club’s success for the season.

With that in mind, let’s explore the biggest rivalries dominating Eredivisie football in 2025.

1. De Klassieker: Ajax vs. Feyenoord

Cities: Amsterdam vs. Rotterdam
First Match: 1921
Nickname: De Klassieker

This is not just the most iconic rivalry in Dutch football—it’s one of the most heated in European football. Ajax and Feyenoord represent two very different cities, cultures, and philosophies. Ajax, known for its total football legacy and emphasis on youth development, stands in contrast to Feyenoord’s gritty, working-class pride and historic roots in Rotterdam.

Why It’s Still Intense in 2025:

• Title Contention: Both clubs are battling for the Eredivisie crown in 2024/25.

• Clashing Styles: Ajax’s possession-heavy style vs. Feyenoord’s high-pressing aggression.

• Recent Clashes: Their early season match in 2025 saw a red card, a late goal, and a controversial VAR decision—only adding fuel to the fire.

Standout Players:

• Ajax: Jorrel Hato, Kenneth Taylor, Brian Brobbey

• Feyenoord: David Hancko, Quilindschy Hartman, Santiago Giménez

2. PSV Eindhoven vs. Ajax

Nickname: De Topper
Rivalry Level: Tactical and Title-Based

While not as emotionally charged as De Klassieker, the rivalry between PSV and Ajax is often more important in deciding the Eredivisie title. Both clubs are financial powerhouses with extensive youth systems and European ambitions.

What Makes It Intense in 2025:

• Tactical Brilliance: Peter Bosz’s PSV side plays quick, dynamic football. Ajax’s rebuilt side under a young manager is finding its rhythm.

• High-Stakes Encounters: The 2024/25 season has already seen the teams draw once and PSV win convincingly in the KNVB Cup quarter-final.

Emerging Storyline: PSV’s resurgence and Ajax’s attempt to rebuild their domestic dominance have reignited this rivalry in a big way.

3. Feyenoord vs. PSV Eindhoven

The Battle of the South-West

This rivalry often flies under the radar but delivers fireworks. Feyenoord’s fans view PSV as a corporate giant without the raw authenticity they pride themselves on. PSV fans, in turn, see Feyenoord as underachievers who live in the past.

Why It’s Fire in 2025:

• Cup and League Clashes: They met three times in the past year, with each side taking a win and one match ending in controversy.

• Fan Intensity: Both fanbases have ultra groups who view these matches as must-wins.

4. AZ Alkmaar vs. FC Utrecht

The Battle for the “Best of the Rest”

This may not be a traditional rivalry, but in modern Eredivisie football, these two clubs represent the next tier below the “big three.” Both are ambitious, push for European spots, and often spoil title races.

2025 Spotlight:

• Rising Talents: AZ’s youthful side clashed with Utrecht’s experienced midfield, creating thrilling games.

• Equal Footing: Matches are tightly contested and tactically rich.

Their rivalry symbolizes the league’s growing competitiveness beyond the top clubs.

5. SC Heerenveen vs. FC Groningen

The Northern Derby

These two clubs represent the pride of the north, and though Groningen recently returned to the Eredivisie, they’ve brought their fighting spirit back.

Why It Matters:

• Regional Identity: Fans see this as a representation of northern resilience and pride.

• Crowd Atmosphere: Sold-out stadiums, loud chants, and historic banners create an electric environment.

Heerenveen’s more stable recent form adds fuel to Groningen’s desire to outperform them and reclaim regional bragging rights.

6. Sparta Rotterdam vs. Excelsior

The Local Rotterdam Derby

Feyenoord dominates Rotterdam’s football scene, but Sparta and Excelsior offer a more local, community-driven version of rivalry.

2025 Context:

• Mid-table Clash: This year’s matches have mid-table implications and survival stakes.

• Old-school Football Feel: Smaller stadiums, passionate fans, and grassroots energy make it a refreshing break from commercialized football.

Data-Driven Rivalries: Metrics That Amplify the Drama

Football analytics has entered the realm of rivalries too. Clubs and analysts measure:

• PPDA (Passes Allowed Per Defensive Action) in rivalry matches.

• xG (Expected Goals) to assess fairness and drama.

• Player duels, bookings, and VAR calls—adding statistical narratives to emotional storylines.

In 2025, data helps fans and pundits dissect not just who won, but why one side triumphed in these emotional clashes.

How Eredivisie Rivalries Fuel Dutch Football’s Growth

The intensity of these rivalries contributes to:

• Increased Viewership: Rivalry matches consistently pull in high domestic and international TV ratings.

• Youth Development: Young players are thrown into high-pressure environments early.

• Commercial Success: Clubs benefit from merchandise sales and sponsorship interest peaking around rivalry matches.

Additionally, these games provide unforgettable moments that make fans fall in love with the sport over and over again.

Rivalry Matches to Watch in the 2025 Calendar

• Ajax vs. Feyenoord – March 2025

• PSV vs. Ajax – April 2025

• AZ vs. FC Utrecht – May 2025

• Heerenveen vs. Groningen – December 2025

Circle these dates—the drama is guaranteed.

Final Thoughts

The Eredivisie may not have the financial clout of the Premier League or La Liga, but when it comes to passion, intensity, and historic rivalries, Dutch football delivers week after week. In 2025, these rivalries are more intense than ever—fueled by young talent, tactical innovation, and a deep cultural connection between club and community.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the Dutch league, these rivalries offer a perfect entry point into one of Europe’s most exciting football landscapes.

⚽ Stand With Your Team, Support Dutch Football

Every great football moment starts with passion—and there’s no better place to experience it than in the heart of Eredivisie rivalries. Stand with your club, back your heroes, and celebrate the beautiful chaos of Dutch football.

Cheer your side, fuel the fire, and support football today. ⚽