Originally posted by Morning_GloryA derby match is a rivalry match. Usually these are due to close proximity of the clubs grounds and the fans of said clubs living near each other.
Why is it called a derby 🐎?
Manchester derby: Between Manchester United (who aren't located in Manchester proper) and Manchester City.
Merseyside/Liverpool derby: Between Liverpool FC and Everton FC, both are very close together in Liverpool with fans all over Merseyside.
East Midlands derby: Between Derby County and Nottingham Forest or Notts County (all in the East Midlands). Interestingly, Notts County and Nottingham Forest also have the Nottingham derby.
Black county derby: Between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Wet Bromwich Albion (West Midlands).
Birmingham derby: Between Birmingham City and Aston Villa. Both in Birmingham and also the West Midlands.
Steel City derby: Between Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United. Sheffield is known as the "steel city" because it produced a lot of steel.
And of course, the North London Derby: Between Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal. This one is particularly interesting because Arsenal used to be called Woolwich Arsenal, but moved to North London which upset the Tottenham fans.
There are many others, but I think you get the point. Also, I know you're American so I have to tell you this: In the UK, 'derby' is pronounced 'darby' including the city of Derby.