Minho derby

The rivalry between SC Braga and Vitória SC is a clash that involves the two most representative clubs in the Minho region. It is usually called the Minho Derby.

More than a rivalry between two sports clubs, it is a rivalry between two historic and neighboring cities, which dates back before the foundation of the nationality, in a dispute between the power of the Archbishops of Braga and the Counts of the County of Portugal. From then until today, there have been several demonstrations of rivalry between the two sides, thus justifying the fact that there is no railway line between the two cities (but rather two isolated branches that connect each city to Porto) or the controversy surrounding the creation of the University of Minho.

Thus the rivalry between SC Braga and Vitória SC is more a reflection of a rivalry between the society of both cities. People from Braga and Guimarães do not like each other. The first are called "marroquinos (moroccans)", the others "espanhóis (spanish)", and beyond the border is enemy land. However, just like the cities to which they belong, there is much more in common between them than what separates them:

• The official founding date of SC Braga dates back to 1921, while that of Vitória SC dates back to 1922.
• In 2024, Braga has around 31,000 members while Vitória has more than 38,000 members.
• They have managed to win titles (both in senior and youth teams) outside the sphere of the big three.
• In the 21st century, these are the clubs that, in sporting terms, cause the most difficulties for the so-called Big Three and that normally compete for the highest positions in the Portuguese League and in qualifying for European competitions.
• Apart from the so-called Big Three, they are the only clubs to maintain a considerable fan base, always with good attendances at home, which provide exciting games and an electrifying spectacle from the stands with great tifos and choreographies.
• Both teams always have good away trips, playing at their opponents' grounds as their home ground, as they have a numerical advantage in most Portuguese stadiums, due to the geographical proximity of the League clubs.