Pitched Battles: Part Two

A civil war breaks out every year at Stadio Olimpico, the shared pitch of AS Roma and Lazio, bitter regional rivals. The fire is stoked by rabid fans, the Roma Ultras that make Philidelphia fans look like saints. The wealthy, right-wing Irriducibili fans stir things up for Lazio, and continually butt heads with the right-wing Ultras. While the Giallorossi traditionally are the better squad, Lazio has narrowed the gap in recent years and the two teams are always near each other in the Serie A standings.

A bit about the rivalry from Expertfootball.com:

"In 1977, smaller groups of Roma fans assembled in what became known as CUCS (Commando Ultra Curva Sud.) By the 1999/2000 season, CUCS segmented and evolved into Roma Ultras. Lazio's organized supporters, Commandos Monteverde Lazio came about in 1971. By 1987 they united with another group, from which emerged the Irriducibili. Since 1992, the Irriducibili have been the most prominent Lazio supporter group. Generally, Roma Ultras represent the left wing middle class from the center of the city. In contrast, the Irriducibili are rich, right wing suburban residents. Both Lazio and AS Roma share the same home venue, Stadio Olimpico. It serves as a tremendous stage for the inter-city battle."

What's your favorite soccer rivalry? Hit up the IGN message boards and we'll post gameplay footage in this running feature from a near-final build of World Soccer Winning Eleven 9 International. Check out the video link below to see Lazio dispatch Roma with penalties after a 1-1 draw.

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