Alessandro Del Piero says the atmosphere of the Sydney derby can be compared with some of Europe's most deep-seated rivalries. The fixture may not have the historic context of clashes in Turin, Madrid, London or Glasgow but Sydney's captain feels as if he is participating in one of Europe's premier derbies every time he plays against the Wanderers due to the passion in the stands.

''The atmosphere looks similar and for sure the derby in Europe is more historic because we've played for more than 100 years, it's a little bit different but the feeling is the same and this is the most important thing,'' Del Piero said. ''What happens on the field and around us, we play in a wonderful stadium, for sure it will be full and the atmosphere will be fantastic.''

No quarter: Alessandro Del Piero of Sydney FC tangles with ex-Sydney man Mark Bridge in a derby last year. Credit:Getty Images

Del Piero is the only Sydney player to have scored against the Wanderers - not surprising considering his track record in derbies during his 19-year career with Juventus. As Inter Milan and AC Milan can attest, ''the little artist'' relished the heated grudge matches in Italy and often saved his best performances to haunt his club's biggest rivals. Fittingly, two of the four goals he scored in his last season for Juve came at the expense of both Milan clubs.

There will be no shortage of pressure on the Italian to deliver in what will likely be his final match against the Wanderers but the 39-year-old welcomes the challenge.