Police in Derby say they will have more than 200 officers on duty in and around Pride Park for Saturday's game with local rivals Stoke City.
Matches between Derby County and Stoke City have a history of violent disturbances.
The game, which is both clubs' first match of the Division One campaign, is expected to draw a crowd of more than 20,000.
Several thousand fans are expected to make the short journey to Derby from the Potteries.
Derbyshire Police have classed the fixture as high risk for potential trouble because of previous problems involving hooligans from both cities.
The police say that, as well as strong presence in and around the stadium, officers will also be out in force in Derby city centre.
It is also hoped that restrictions on ticket sales to both sets of supporters will reduce the risk of violence.