Sports
El Gran Derbi: The Earliest Seville Derby since 1987/88
- The 2018/19 season may only have reached Matchday 3 but it’s already time for one of the LaLiga Santander’s blockbuster fixtures
Real Betis and Sevilla FC will meet this Sunday evening (20:45 CEST) at Betis’ Benito Villamarín stadium for the first Seville derby of the new season.
This will be the earliest these two teams have met in a LaLiga Santander season since they faced off over 30 years ago on the opening weekend of the 1987/88 campaign.
This makes an already spicy derby even more mouth-watering, as the result could set the tone for the rest of the season. Both teams’ squads are still getting used to playing with each other, but there’s no such thing as a dress rehearsal when it comes to ‘El Gran Derbi.’ This derby match means everything to the fans, who’ll demand, as always, that their heroes approach it like a cup final.
Real Betis, nicknamed Los Verdiblancos (‘The Green and Whites’), finished above their city rivals last year in sixth while Sevilla, who also go by the name of Los Rojiblancos (‘The Red and Whites’), finished in seventh.
Sevilla will be desperate to earn a first derby victory since February 2017, especially after Betis’ stunning 5-3 away win at the Sanchez-Pizjuan in January.
El Gran Derbi sets to the tone for the season
At this early stage in the season, it’s too soon to know exactly what these clubs will be competing for come May. It is more than likely, though, that they’ll both be in the mix for European qualification. Both have had busy summers in terms of player acquisition and there is an expectation amongst fans of both sides that their teams are more than good enough to secure a European spot once again.
Betis will need a positive result to start their campaign off on the right foot. They’re yet to score this season despite racking up an average of 72.3% possession in their opening two games, and were punished on the counter attack in the home opener against Levante before picking up a goalless draw at Alaves on Matchday 2.
Sevilla’s start has been more positive, winning 4-1 away at LaLiga Santander new boys Rayo Vallecano before a playing out a goalless draw with fellow European contenders Villarreal.
Pablo Machin’s side have been in Europa League qualification action since late July and their fitness levels are at a mid-season level. That said, there’ll be no complacency ahead of a game as important as this one.
New faces, same old rivalry
One position to keep an eye on this Sunday is goalkeeper as both clubs signed new starting shot-stoppers over the summer.
Antonio Adan and Sergio Rico, last season’s first-choice keepers, have moved on. Betis now how have Pau Lopez between the sticks, while Sevilla brought in Czech international Tomáš Vaclík.
Betis’ summer signing Takashi Inui could also be important as the Japanese winger’s dribbling ability provides them with a more direct option in attack, while new Sevilla striker André Silva will surely trouble the Betis defence.
Silva scored a hat-trick on his LaLiga debut at Rayo Vallecano and he’ll be looking to make this a similarly happy away trip.
Seville, a city divided
El Gran Derbi is so important to Seville because the city is, curiously, split right down the middle. Unlike in many other cities in Spain and across Europe, the two clubs boast a similar sized support, something that only increases the stakes and, of course, the decibel levels!
Both clubs have been in existence for over a century, making this one of the longest-running rivalries in football. Officially the first derby took place in 1915, with Betis winning 1-0 thanks to a goal from Alberto Henke.
The derby was already considered such a big deal that the victors paraded through the city centre with the trophy they’d been awarded.
Unofficially, though, these two clubs have been at loggerheads even longer and an earlier incarnation of Betis first took on Sevilla on Valentine’s Day, 1909. It may have been a day of love, but there has never been any love lost between these two clubs since then.
Though there is resentment between the two fanbases, there is also a good-natured and humorous side to this rivalry. Jokes, arguments and pranks have always been part of the derby and the moment two Betis-supporting builders emblazoned the Betis badge onto Sevilla’s stadium during construction works will live long in the memory of fans.
From Seville to the world
On an international level, the profile of the derby is growing day by day. Sevilla have won five Europa League titles since the turn of the century while Betis have rolled out an exciting possession-based style of football under coach Quique Setien, piquing the interests of football purists both at home and abroad. With official supporter groups stretching from Scotland to New York City, these clubs continue to grow in stature every day.
Sports
Mbah Receives EPL Trophy, Seeks Guinness’ Partnership to Grow Sports in Enugu
…Why we choose Enugu- Guinness, reports SANDRA ANI
The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has expressed his eagerness to partner with Guinness Nigeria PLC to accelerate his administration’s sports development effort, describing the state as the home of sporting legends, who have ruled the world of sports as well as home of abundant talents for the future.
Mbah spoke when a team of Guinness Nigeria’s management showcased the English Premier League, EPL, trophy, to him at Government House, Enugu, on Friday.
It is recalled that Guinness Nigeria and the Premier League partnered to bring the iconic silverware for display in Enugu on Friday, May 16 and in Lagos on Saturday May 17 and Sunday, 18 to give EPL’s teeming fans in Nigeria the rare opportunity to experience the trophy.
Speaking during the presentation of the trophy at the Lion Building, Enugu State Government House, Mbah noted that beside putting in place legislative frameworks for sports development, his administration was also embarking on a massive reconstruction of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and Awgu Games Village preparatory to hosting the 2026 edition of the National Sports Festival.
“Like Guinness, we regard sports as a positive force in Enugu. We are not surprised that the Guinness flagship event is being held here in Enugu. Just like Guinness, we also see sports as a platform to foster social cohesion. We are not just paying lip service to sports; we actually have our skin in the game.
“We believe that the EPL is quite a spectacle with audiences across the world and you couldn’t have chosen a better city for the flagship event than Enugu.
“Again, since here is the home of Rangers and since we have also recognised that this is where it all happens, let us begin to think about more collaboration with Guinness to see how we can secure endorsement with the Guinness corporate brand. This should be on the table because Rangers also won the 2023/2024 Nigerian Premier League title.
“We are just about giving the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and Awgu Games Village a new lease of life, making sure they meet FIFA and World Athletics standards ahead of the National Sports Festival. So, we look forward to more strategic collaboration with Guinness. We are quite a business-friendly state,” he stated.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation and the Corporate Relations Director at Guinness Nigeria PLC, Rotimi Odusola, described Enugu State as the spiritual home of sports in Nigeria, noting the exploits of Rangers.
He said it was only natural to choose Enugu for the display of the EPL silverware, given its history and the great job Governor Mbah had done in repositioning the state.
“Some may wonder why Enugu. There is a reason for us to choose Enugu as the first place in Nigeria since this trophy arrived yesterday. It is because we know that Enugu State is the spiritual home of football in Nigeria. As a young football lover, I can’t forget all of the stories around Enugu Rangers football team.
“I want to also appreciate you for the work you are doing. The last time I was in Enugu was in 2022 and I have seen remarkable improvements in Enugu State since my last visit.
“This presentation of the EPL trophy is an opportunity for us to reinforce Guinness Nigeria being a business that has been intricate in the fabric of Nigeria for 75 years. We also want to use this opportunity to create magical moments for our consumers and members of the public through the collaboration between Guinness globally and the English Premier League,” he added.
The event was witnessed by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Enugu State, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke; Director, Marketing and Innovations, Guinness Nigeria, Yinka Bakare; Director, Corporate Relations, Guinness Nigeria, Rotimi Odusola; Head of Marketing, Guinness Nigeria, Ramanathan Sollayepan; Head of Division, South-East Region, Guinness Nigeria, Adesoji Opeyemi; General Manager, Rangers International Football Club of Enugu, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku; and the Chairman, Enugu State Football Association, Barr. Tony Ugwu, among others.
MTN Nigeria, the official sponsor of the English Premier League (EPL) on SuperSport, successfully hosted an electrifying Manchester Derby watch party at Bay Lounge, Lekki, on April 6, 2025. Football fans gathered for a superb night of live-action football, engaging discussions, and exciting giveaways.
Building on the success of its previous Arsenal vs. Manchester United watch party, MTN Nigeria once again provided a premium viewing experience that brought fans together to celebrate their shared passion for football.
These fans enjoyed their match on a big screen among other football lovers. The Derby ended in a tense goalless draw that, while lacking in goals, was full of drama.
Fans erupted at every near-miss, debated tactical battles, and rode the emotional rollercoaster of a match that left City’s Champions League hopes hanging and reflected Manchester United’s season frustrations.
Looking ahead, this draw presents an opportunity for Newcastle United, as they could overtake City for fifth place if they secure a victory against Leicester City, who are battling relegation, on Monday; highlighting the competitive nature of the league and the dynamic possibilities for all teams involved.
Nwadinma Gregory, one lucky attendee who walked away with an MTN broadband MiFi, said “The energy at the MTN Nigeria watch party was absolutely incredible! Watching the Manchester Derby with fellow fans, experiencing every goal, every near miss and every thrilling moment together made it unforgettable. MTN really knows how to bring football lovers together for an amazing experience!”
One of the biggest talking points was Kevin De Bruyne, who recently announced this would be his final season at Manchester City.
Fans took the opportunity to reflect on his remarkable legacy. Mickhael Ehi, an attendee, shared his thoughts on De Bruyne’s impact and contribution to the team, highlighting the significance of his career at the club: “Seeing De Bruyne in what might be his last Manchester Derby was bittersweet. He’s been a Premier League legend: the assists, the vision, the leadership. Even if he wasn’t at his peak today, you could feel the respect from the crowd. Players like him don’t come around often.”
Lakinbofa Goodluck, MTN Nigeria’s PR Manager, highlighted the brand’s dedication to enhancing football experiences:
“At MTN Nigeria, we are committed to enriching the experiences of our customers and football lovers. The Premier League is more than just football; it’s about community, passion, and unforgettable moments, and we are proud to bring that to our fans.”
With the EPL season still in full swing, MTN Nigeria will continue to create unique engagement opportunities for fans, ensuring they stay connected to the game they love.
…reaffirms MTN Nigeria’s support following ‘draw’ with Zimbabwe.
MTN Nigeria, the official telecommunications partner of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), has reiterated its unwavering support for the Super Eagles following their spirited draw with Zimbabwe in the World Cup qualifier match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
Building on the momentum from their recent victory against Rwanda, MTN Nigeria had expressed strong backing for the national team ahead of the crucial fixture. Tobe Okigbo, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Corporate Services & Sustainability Officer, stated before the game, “We are confident in the team’s ability to make Nigeria proud and qualify for the World Cup.”
Despite the draw, MTN Nigeria’s CEO, Karl Toriola, maintained a positive outlook. “While tonight’s outcome wasn’t what we hoped for, we remain steadfast in our support for the Super Eagles. This result is just part of the journey towards World Cup qualification, and we believe in the team’s resilience and ability to succeed,” Toriola said.
The match showcased the Super Eagles’ grit and determination as they found their rhythm against the Zimbabwean side. Nigeria scored the first goal, demonstrating their prowess and fighting spirit, although the match ultimately ended in a draw. This result has added to the excitement of Nigeria’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
MTN Nigeria, which signed a deal with the NFF in 2021 as the Official Telecoms Partner, has been a constant pillar of support for Nigerian football for over two decades. The company’s commitment extends from grassroots to national levels, investing significantly in the development of local football.
“Our support for the Super Eagles and all national teams is part of our long-standing tradition,” Toriola added. “We are building a sustainable legacy of collaboration, growth, and development in the football space. Tonight’s result doesn’t change our belief in the team’s potential to make all Nigerians proud on the global stage. We believe in our Eagles.”
As the Super Eagles regroup and prepare for their next qualifier, MTN Nigeria has called on all Nigerians to rally behind the team. The company emphasized that this is a crucial time for unity and continued support, expressing confidence that the Super Eagles will overcome this challenge and strive towards securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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