The Best EPL Rivalry Matches of the Last Decade

The Best EPL Rivalry Matches of the Last Decade

The English Premier League (EPL) has consistently delivered breath-taking football over the years, but few spectacles compare to the intensity, drama, and passion of its rivalry matches. These encounters transcend the sport, becoming moments of history that fans remember for years to come. Over the past decade, certain clashes have stood out for their quality, tension, and the stories they created. Here, we delve into some of the best EPL rivalry matches of the last ten years.

1. Liverpool vs. Manchester City (2018-19)

The rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester City reached new heights during the 2018-19 season. Pep Guardiola’s and Jürgen Klopp’s tactical brilliance came head-to-head as their teams battled fiercely for the league title.

The match at the Etihad Stadium in January 2019 is particularly memorable. Manchester City won 2-1 in a pulsating contest where every second felt like a final. The intensity was epitomised by John Stones’ miraculous goal-line clearance, preventing Liverpool from scoring by mere millimetres. That season, City edged out Liverpool by just one point to claim the league, but this encounter encapsulated the essence of modern footballing rivalry at its peak.

2. Manchester United vs. Liverpool (2021-22)

When Manchester United and Liverpool meet, the stakes are always high. Their October 2021 clash at Old Trafford, however, shocked the footballing world.

Liverpool humiliated their arch-rivals with a 5-0 victory, displaying a ruthless attacking masterclass led by Mohamed Salah, who scored a hat-trick. The game exposed the growing gulf between the two teams at the time, leaving United fans devastated and Liverpool supporters jubilant. Rivalry matches are not just about close contests but also about the narrative they create, and this one became a talking point for months.

3. North London Derby: Arsenal vs. Tottenham Hotspur (2018)

The North London Derby is always a fiery affair, and the December 2018 match between Arsenal and Tottenham did not disappoint.

Played at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal came from behind to secure a thrilling 4-2 victory. The match had everything: spectacular goals, aggressive tackles, and red cards. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s brace, including a stunning curling effort, sealed the win, but the game is equally remembered for its unrelenting pace and the electric atmosphere in the stadium.

4. Chelsea vs. Tottenham Hotspur (2016: The ‘Battle of the Bridge’)

This iconic encounter in May 2016 had enormous implications for both teams. Tottenham needed a win to keep their title hopes alive, while Chelsea, out of the title race, were determined to spoil their rival’s party.

The match ended 2-2, handing the title to Leicester City. It was a fiery, physical contest marked by multiple scuffles and controversial moments. By the end, tempers flared so much that the game is now famously referred to as "The Battle of the Bridge." The clash encapsulated the raw emotions that come with rivalry games, making it one of the most unforgettable matches in EPL history.

5. Merseyside Derby: Liverpool vs. Everton (2020)

The Merseyside Derby has seen its fair share of drama, but the October 2020 edition at Goodison Park was a rollercoaster.

The game ended in a 2-2 draw, but it was marred by contentious moments. Virgil van Dijk suffered a season-ending injury after a reckless challenge by Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Liverpool thought they had clinched victory when Jordan Henderson scored in stoppage time, only for VAR to rule the goal offside by the slimmest of margins. The game left fans on both sides with lingering feelings of frustration and heartbreak, underlining the emotional stakes of this historic rivalry.

6. Manchester Derby: Manchester City vs. Manchester United (2018)

Few Manchester Derby matches have had as much significance as the April 2018 meeting at the Etihad Stadium. Manchester City could have secured the league title with a victory over their neighbours, and they looked set to do so after taking a 2-0 lead.

However, Manchester United staged a stunning second-half comeback, winning 3-2 thanks to a brace from Paul Pogba and a goal from Chris Smalling. The match not only delayed City’s title celebrations but also showcased the unpredictable drama that only the EPL can offer.

7. Leicester City vs. Aston Villa (2019)

While not a traditional rivalry, the burgeoning competition between Leicester City and Aston Villa produced one of the most entertaining games in December 2019. Leicester’s 4-1 demolition of Villa at Villa Park was a masterclass in counter-attacking football.

Jamie Vardy’s brace and Kelechi Iheanacho’s contributions highlighted Leicester’s resurgence under Brendan Rodgers. For Villa fans, it was a painful reminder of their rebuilding phase, but for neutrals, it was a high-quality game showcasing the EPL’s competitive depth.

8. Arsenal vs. Manchester United (2022-23)

Arsenal and Manchester United have a storied rivalry that dates back decades, and their January 2023 meeting at the Emirates Stadium rekindled memories of past glories.

Arsenal edged out a thrilling 3-2 victory, with Eddie Nketiah scoring a dramatic late winner. The game was a statement of intent from Arsenal, solidifying their title challenge, while United’s resilience highlighted their resurgence under Erik ten Hag. The match was a reminder of why this rivalry continues to captivate fans.

9. Southampton vs. Liverpool (2017)

This match deserves mention for the sheer tension it brought to the table. In January 2017, Southampton defeated Liverpool 1-0 over two legs in the EFL Cup semi-final, marking a pivotal moment in their history.

While not a league match, the encounters highlighted the intensity smaller clubs bring when facing EPL giants. Southampton’s disciplined defensive performance and Nathan Redmond’s goal created one of the most significant upsets of the season, earning the admiration of neutrals and supporters alike.

10. West Ham United vs. Tottenham Hotspur (2021)

The London rivalry between West Ham and Tottenham has produced several memorable clashes, but their October 2021 meeting was particularly significant.

West Ham triumphed 1-0 thanks to Michail Antonio’s goal, but the game’s real talking point was the Hammers’ resilience and determination. This victory was a statement of their rise under David Moyes and highlighted the unpredictable nature of EPL rivalries.

Conclusion

Rivalry matches in the English Premier League are about more than just three points; they are battles for pride, history, and the emotional highs and lows that define football. From iconic comebacks to moments of heartbreak, the last decade has provided fans with countless memories.

As these rivalries continue to evolve, fans can only anticipate more epic encounters that capture the essence of football and keep the passion for the beautiful game alive. Whether you're in the stands or watching from home, these matches remind us why we love the EPL.