It would be difficult to find a country with more passionate soccer fans than the Italians, and this becomes even more clear whenever there is a Roma vs Lazio Derby match on. What we know as “soccer” in America is more than just a sport in Italy. It’s a way of life. Soccer, also known as “football” to the Italians is by far the most popular sport in Italy and you cannot miss the incredible experience of seeing a game in person if you are ever in Italy.

The Roma vs Lazio Derby is considered the biggest match in Italy. This game is played in the city of Rome between Roma and Lazio at Stadio Olimpico. The rivalry between these two teams is fierce and attending a match gives you a chance to witness the fantastic atmosphere.  What makes this rivalry so interesting is that both of these teams share the same home field. Now it’s time to break down these two teams and the steps you should take to get a seat at one of these amazing matches.

HISTORY BEHIND A.S. ROMA AND S.S. LAZIO

Associazione Sportiva Roma (A.S. Roma) was born in 1927.  Roma wears the colors red and orange. Rome’s other team, Societa Sportiva Lazio (S.S. Lazio) was founded in 1900. Lazio wears the colors bright blue and white. Lazio fans have a long time rivalry with Roma fans and vice versa. The reason for this rivalry dates all the way back to when Mussolini tried to destroy all the clubs in Rome to make a new team called Roma. Lazio was the only team that stood up for itself and remained a team. The other three teams made up Roma. Lazio fans didn’t like how Roma was trying to take their club, which led to all the tension that still goes on today.

STADIO OLIMPICO

The Olympic Stadium was constructed in 1928 and completed in 1932.  It was a project by the regime of Mussolini. Stadio Olimpico has a bit of history to it that dates back to 1960 when the Olympics were held there. They have also held European championships and European cup finals. In 1990 they held the world cup which eventually led to renovations. Today the stadium holds about 74,000 people.  Host to both A.S. Roma and S.S. Lazio. Depending on which club you support, it’s crucial that you sit in the correct area. The Roma die-hards will be sitting in the curva sud behind the goal, this is where you will witness nonstop chants.

Directly across from them will be the Lazio fans located in the curva nord. I highly recommend not going into either of these sections with opposing team colors as it won’t end up well for you. Italians take this sport very serious, games can even get violent at times.  Rioting in the stands is something that happens from time to time so it’s important to be aware and stay safe. These spectators eat, breathe and live soccer so be ready for one hell of a match.

HOW TO GET TICKETS TO THE MATCH         

If you can’t buy tickets in advance, be ready for when they go on sale because they’ll sell out fast. Getting tickets for this match can be difficult, if not impossible, and requires some planning. Tickets generally go on sale between three to four weeks before the game. Waiting in line when tickets go on sale at one of the official merchandising stores in Rome or Lazio is usually your best option, but can be tedious especially if you are on vacation and don’t want to waste your precious time in Rome! You can also book a LivItaly AS Roma Soccer Experience and get VIP seating and hospitality for the Derby and any game!

Remember: It’s crucial that you provide a form of I.D. when purchasing the tickets, whether it’s online or at one of the stores. Even if you are purchasing for family or friends, you will need to present this information to complete the purchase. I promise you it will be an experience to remember for the rest of your life.

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