The history and rivalry of Club America and Chivas Guadalajara dates back to 1943.
In Mexican soccer, it is regarded as the biggest fixture any day it is played due to the pedigree of the two sides. It is famously known as the El Súper Clásico (English: The Super Classic).
So how strong is the rivalry, and what makes it popular? Sit tight as I bring you a detailed insight.
Initial meeting
The first meeting between the two sides was in the Copa México (Mexican National Cup) in July 1943. The meeting ended in a 1-0 scoreline in favor of Chivas.
It all began as a rivalry between the two most popular teams in the country.
The rivalry began after the second meeting after Chivas ran the route with a 7-2 win over Club America, which sparked embarrassment amongst fans of the latter.
However, it took two decades before the two teams clashed again and fully established the rivalry that it is today.
It is also termed a classic due to their performance. Club America was founded in 1916, while Chivas was born in 1906.
In 1983, the meeting sparked a riot that forced the match to be played on neutral ground.
The most memorable moments of the rivalry were in the 2000s, when Club America created a record after winning a league game in a year and beating Chivas four times.
Achievement
Both clubs became a powerhouse in Mexican soccer following their dominance in the domestic scene.
Today, Club America holds the record league championships with over 13 titles, even though Chivas are only one behind them.
The soccer landscape in Mexico is typical for Latin American countries where two tournaments are held in one year to crown the champions.
Chiva and Club America also dominate other domestic trophies, including the Campeón de Campeones.
On the international stage, Club America has the edge over their rivals with a record number of CONCACAF Champions League wins.
Club America
America is the most decorated soccer club in Mexico. They have won the league, cups, and Champions League.
Chivas Guadalajara
Chivas Guadalajara is the second most decorated soccer team in Mexico. They have won the league cups.
But before these achievements at the national and international stage, Chiva Guadalajara had already established themselves as a bigger giant in the regional league division.
Club America Trophies
Liga MX (15), Copa México/Copa MX (6), Campeón de Campeones (7), CONCACAF Champions Cup/Champions League (7)
Chivas Guadalajara
Liga MX (12), Campeón de Campeones (7), CONCACAF Champions' Cup/Champions League (2).
Popularity, Culture, and Fan Base
Club America and Chivas Guadalajara are known for their extensive fan base across Mexico. In fact, they hold the highest share of the supporters within the country.
Their performance, especially Club America, has led to increased engagement from other countries like the United States, Canada, and Latin American countries.
In the United States, Club America and Chivas have a stronger presence than many soccer teams in the country, especially in the Hispanic regions.
Club America is a very popular team not just in Mexico and North America but globally due to their performance and branding.
They're also one of the wealthiest soccer teams and are known for signing foreign players from Latin America and Europe.
Chivas Guadalajara, on the other hand, has a unique culture where players of Mexican heritage play for the club. That said, the club's performance says it all.
Today, the history and rivalry between Club America and Chivas Guadalajara is known globally and is ranked among the biggest soccer rivalries.
Home ground, nickname, and ownership
Club America plays at the famous Estadio Azteca located in Mexico City. They are nicknamed The Eagles.
Chivas Guadalajara, on the other hand, play their home games at the Estadio Akron located in the
Guadalajara metropolitan area of Jalisco. They are nicknamed Rojiblancos, meaning "Red and Whites.".
Key games
1983: The Riot
This was the second leg of the 1982–83 season semi finals when the brawl broke out between the two teams. The brawl disrupted the entire fixture and led to the suspension of the game.
The fixture eventually saw the elimination of Club America as Chivas went on to play FC Puebla in the finals.
The following season, the two sides clashed again (in the final) of the tournament, but this time, it went in favor of Club America.
Clausura 2005
The most memorable game came in the 2005 Clausura tournament when the two sides clashed. The game was dramatic, as both sides had it difficult to claim an outright win on the day.
2007 Record for Club America
Club America established a record as they registered a record number of wins in the league and defeated rivals Chivas Guadalajara four times.
2016
The two sides met for a record seven times in all competitions. Club America had the highest number of wins at three.