The Berlin Derby is a spectacle that embodies more than just a football rivalry; it’s a clash that tells the story of Berlin’s divided past and its vibrant present. When Hertha BSC and 1. FC Union Berlin face off, the city becomes electrified with anticipation, and the intensity on the pitch mirrors the spirit of a city that has seen everything from division to unity. For anyone passionate about football culture, this derby is a must-experience event.
The Rich History of the Berlin Derby
To truly understand the significance of the Berlin Derby, one must first appreciate the history of Berlin itself. The rivalry between Hertha BSC and 1. FC Union Berlin is rooted in the city’s unique past, marked by the division of East and West Berlin. Hertha, founded in 1892, became synonymous with West Berlin and represented the football culture of the capitalist West. On the other hand, Union Berlin, formed in 1966 in East Berlin, symbolized resilience and the working-class spirit of the East.
During the Cold War era, matches between these two clubs were rare and emotionally charged. When they did happen, they often served as a reflection of the political and social divide. After the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the rivalry took on a new meaning. Transforming from a symbol of division into a celebration of the city’s reunification. Yet, the competitive edge has never waned, and every match remains a battle for Berlin’s footballing pride.
The Stadiums: Olympiastadion and Stadion An der Alten Försterei
The Berlin Derby is played in two iconic venues, each with its own unique character and history.
Olympiastadion, the home of Hertha BSC, is a monumental structure that can hold over 74,000 fans. Built for the 1936 Olympic Games, it exudes grandeur and is steeped in historical significance. Watching a match here is an awe-inspiring experience. With the sheer size of the stadium and the roaring chants of the Hertha faithful echoing through the stands. The Olympiastadion is a place where history and modernity collide, and it creates a remarkable stage for the derby.
Stadion An der Alten Försterei, Union Berlin’s home ground, offers a striking contrast. With a capacity of just over 22,000, it’s an intimate and fiercely passionate arena. The fans, known for their unwavering loyalty, pack the stands and create a cauldron of noise. The stadium has a rustic charm, with fans standing shoulder to shoulder, singing and cheering with a raw intensity that’s hard to find anywhere else. This ground is a testament to Union’s working-class roots and the soul of East Berlin’s football culture.
Highlight Matches That Defined the Rivalry
Several matches in the Berlin Derby’s history have captured the essence of this fierce rivalry. One unforgettable encounter took place in November 2019, the first Bundesliga meeting between Hertha and Union. The game at Stadion An der Alten Försterei was intense and emotional, with Union winning 1-0 thanks to a late penalty by Sebastian Polter. The celebrations that followed were a testament to the passion and pride of Union fans, as they had finally claimed victory in the top flight against their city rivals.
Another classic came in January 2021 at the Olympiastadion. Hertha BSC emerged victorious with a 3-1 win, a match that saw tempers flare and the physicality of the derby come to the fore. The match had everything: goals, drama, and the ever-present tension that makes the Berlin Derby so captivating. These games highlight the unpredictability and raw emotion that define this fixture.
Players Who Became Berlin Derby Legends
No derby would be complete without players who etched their names into history with unforgettable performances. The Berlin Derby has had its share of heroes, but a few stand out for their ability to rise to the occasion and deliver when it mattered most.
Sebastian Polter (1. FC Union Berlin)
Sebastian Polter is a name that Union Berlin fans will always remember. In November 2019, during the first-ever Bundesliga Berlin Derby, Polter scored the decisive penalty that gave Union a historic 1-0 victory over Hertha BSC at Stadion An der Alten Försterei. The moment was monumental, not just because it secured three points but because it marked Union’s first derby win in Germany’s top flight. The tension was palpable, with Union fans holding their breath as Polter stepped up to the spot. When he calmly converted, the stadium erupted in celebration, and Polter’s name became forever etched in Union folklore. His goal wasn’t just a strike; it was a statement of Union’s arrival on the biggest stage. And a source of immense pride for their passionate supporters.
Salomon Kalou (Hertha BSC)
For Hertha BSC, Salomon Kalou is one of the players who left a lasting impact on the Berlin Derby. Known for his experience and composure, Kalou delivered a derby performance to remember in March 2019. Hertha and Union faced off in a thrilling encounter that ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw at the Olympiastadion. Kalou scored both goals for Hertha, showing his poise under pressure and his ability to perform in the biggest games. His equalizing goal in stoppage time secured a crucial point for Hertha and sent the home crowd into a frenzy. Kalou’s leadership and knack for finding the net in key moments earned him the respect and admiration of Hertha fans. And his contributions in the Berlin Derby remain a highlight of his career with the club.
The Unforgettable Atmosphere
Experiencing the Berlin Derby in person is something that stays with you forever. The atmosphere is unlike any other; it’s a melting pot of passion, history, and the unbreakable spirit of Berlin. Fans of both clubs pour their heart and soul into supporting their teams. And the city comes alive with pre-match festivities. Walking through the streets on derby day, you can feel the buzz in the air, with fans draped in blue and white or red and white, chanting songs that have been sung for decades.
At the Olympiastadion, the atmosphere is imposing, with Hertha fans performing choreographed displays and belting out songs that echo through the cavernous stands. Meanwhile, at Stadion An der Alten Försterei, the Union faithful create a fortress-like atmosphere, with non-stop chanting and an emotional connection to their team that’s palpable. It’s a ground where you feel the history and the sense of community in every corner.
When I visited the Berlin Derby, the feeling was surreal. The rivalry was fierce, but there was also a sense of unity in the diversity of the city’s football culture. The passion of the fans, the historic backdrop, and the electric energy made it an unforgettable experience. Whether you support Hertha or Union, or even if you’re a neutral observer, the Berlin Derby leaves a lasting impression.
Why the Berlin Derby Is a Must-Experience
The Berlin Derby is more than just a football match. It’s a celebration of the city’s resilience and the unifying power of sport. It’s a reflection of Berlin’s complex history, where East meets West and past meets present. If you’re a football enthusiast, witnessing this derby is a bucket-list experience. It’s an event where you can feel the heartbeat of Berlin, from the echoing chants at the Olympiastadion to the pulsating energy of Stadion An der Alten Försterei.
Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of Hertha or the gritty passion of Union, the Berlin Derby is a fixture that captures the soul of the city. It’s a reminder of how football can unite, even in the face of rivalry, and it’s a testament to the enduring love of the game that defines Berlin.
If you’re planning to visit Berlin and want to experience everything this footballing city has to offer, be sure to check out our Ultimate Berlin Soccer Travel Guide. It’s packed with tips on the best places to catch a match, where to soak up the pre-match atmosphere, and how to explore the footballing culture that makes Berlin truly special.
