Intense derbies are LaLiga’s lifeblood

La Liga derbies [Photo: Diario AS]

“How was Spain? It was great, although locals are a bit mad. They go crazy for football,” a kid says in a Spanish LaLiga Santander TV intro.

“They do weird things to bring their teams good luck,” the advert continues. “Kids sign up their club members’ cards before they can even walk... people cry when they lose but they cry even more when they win.”

Exaggeration? Well, may be a trip to Spain would provide the answer.

One thing for sure is that football craze in the Iberian country dates back to 1890s and has given birth to nail-biting derbies in their professional league, LaLiga Santander.

Besides the world renowned ‘Classic’ – El Clásico in Spanish, the clash between Real Madrid and Barcelona–LaLiga boasts five regional derbies provides the lifeblood of the world’s top football league.

Real vs Atletico is also a great derby to watch [Courtesy]

“You cannot trade those derby days for other activities when it comes around to your region,” said LaLiga Delegate to East Africa Oliver Dodd over the weekend during a cultural display of foods and snacks football fans in Spain partake during matches.

“It is true, football in Spain is not just football. There is more to it for it is also an occasion to display regional and cultural identities. As for derbies, it is about expressing superiority on the pitch but off it, it is a time for friendship and sharing meals,” he said.

Bocata or bocadillo - is a sandwich made with Spanish bread, usually a baguette or similar type of bread, cut lengthwise, is the favourite among fans. Friends share local drinks before and after matches to unwind after intense ties.