I agree with you Slapshot, it doesn't really matter in fights. What I think people would like to see is what's going on in the grand scheme of things with a quick glance of the map.
I think this would be of particular benefit to newer players who continually ask "where's the fight?" "where am I needed?" "where are you guys?"

A three colour map in addition to the country icons, would help them see these things more easily as they can instantly indentify who's who and what they're doing or trying to do.
A couple examples for two different playing styles (which applies to all countries) that can benefit. First example: Some Knights are looking at the map and can see that there is a Bishop/Rook front in 1 or 2 sectors that will help them get in on some action or maybe stir something up if nothing is going on.
Second example: Some Rooks looking at the map can see that defense is needed in the South to counter the Bishops who are making a push which may not be that noticeable in a sea of red (if they're using the default colours) when the other two sides are not fighting there at the moment.
Of course if a player prefers two colours that option is still available to them. Besides, a three colour map would simply be be better looking (look at the pretty map!)
