Leeds United’s Biggest Rivals
Although Leeds United are no longer in the Premier League, nor one of the biggest clubs in Europe, they still draw a huge crowd, not only of home supporters but neutral fans whenever they play. This is no more intense than when they play their biggest rivals, whether that be a local rival from Yorkshire or a rival from past title chases, Leeds will always be an exciting team to watch. Let’s take a look at Leeds United’s biggest rivals and the reason why these matches are always so intense.
Derby County
Leeds’ bitter rivalry with Derby stretches back to the 60s and 70s when both teams were competing for the top honours in English football. Derby took the title in 1972, while Leeds won in 1969 and 1974. The rivalry was not just on the pitch however, the now infamous feud between Brian Clough and Don Revie only served to make the conflict even more intense. Clough used every opportunity to he had to mention Leeds and his disdain for the players.
Huddersfield Town
A local rivalry that has been reinvigorated in recent years with the two teams being in the same league. Both teams are located in West Yorkshire, one of the most passionate parts of the UK, so it’s no surprise that this is a fierce rivalry. In the 1920s, Huddersfield became the first club in England to win the First Division title in three consecutive seasons. They could only watch on as Leeds became one of the top sides in the whole of Europe, winning numerous trophies.
Chelsea
The rivalry between Leeds and Chelsea dates back to 1964. The match that took place was an intense battle, full of dangerous tackles and it would eventually lead to a Leeds player being carried off via stretcher. The teams would meet in the 66/67 FA Cup Final where Leeds had two goals ruled out and Chelsea went on to win the trophy. Leeds v Chelsea is guaranteed to be a feisty affair ever since.
Manchester United
Leeds’ biggest rivalry by far is against Manchester United. It started to grow in the 60s when Leeds got promoted to the top division. United and Leeds were in constant competition with each other from then, pipping each other to division titles and FA Cup trophies. In 1991/92, the two teams were fighting it out for the titles, Leeds eventually won the trophy but United were back again the following year and took the trophy from Leeds.
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