Flamengo vs Fluminense

The Fla-Flu is the nickname for the historic rivalry match between Clube de Regatas do Flamengo and Fluminense Football Club. Both clubs are based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and their origins date back to 1912. It is considered one of South America's most intense local competitions.

Because both clubs are based in Rio de Janeiro, the match is traditionally played at the massive Maracanã Stadium. Both clubs share the stadium, meaning neither team has a true home-field advantage regarding the venue itself. The passionate supporters from Rio fill the stadium to capacity for these derbies.

The rivalry started in 1912 when a group of players unhappy with Fluminense defected to play for Flamengo's newly formed football team. This immediate bitter feud was amplified by social tensions, as Fluminense was traditionally associated with the elite and Flamengo with the working class. The contrasting team identities fueled the intense competition.

The rivalry holds the world record for the highest attendance at a football club match, drawing over 194,000 fans to the Maracanã in 1963. The intense passion of the Rio de Janeiro supporters ensures these massive stadium turnouts remain a hallmark of the derby. Today, strict safety regulations limit the capacity, but the atmosphere remains electric.