Introduction

Welcome to Week 3 of this course Football: More than a Game. This week we consider some great football rivalries and derby matches.

What makes for a classic football rivalry? As we continue to explore the background to some of the great football club rivalries in the world, tell us about great football rivalries close to you. What is the history behind the rivalry and what makes it significant for you? How does the rivalry continue to affect present day and what sustains these relationships between clubs and their fans?

This week, whilst we take a look at rivalry in football, we also think about some football matches that have helped to produce social change. Specifically, we look at football in the community, the role of professional football clubs and social change, as well as the growth of football in China.

Let’s dive into this week’s material.