Songs to Play Before a Match: Athlete-Approved Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks That Overflow with Power
At those crucial moments—like during daily practice or right before an important match—music stays by our side and gives us tremendous strength.
Many of you probably listen to your favorite songs to boost your spirits as you head into those special moments.
In this article, we’ve picked out uplifting, heart-stirring anthems that raise your motivation.
From upbeat tracks that fire up your fighting spirit, to relaxing numbers that wrap you in a sense of calm, to athletes’ personal favorites—we’ve gathered a wide variety of songs.
We hope you’ll find them helpful.
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[Songs to Listen to Before a Match] Beloved by Athletes Too!? Power-Packed Fight Anthems and Victory Tracks (61–70)
No.1DISH//
DISH// is a band that made a leap forward in 2020.
Despite vocalist Takumi Kitamura’s sweet looks, they’ve got plenty of songs that pack a powerful punch when it comes to singing.
Their track “No.1” features a refreshing, upbeat rock sound.
It was chosen as the opening theme for Season 5 of the TV anime My Hero Academia.
It’s a fully positive, protagonist-style song about pushing forward higher than before and hotter than anyone else.
Perfect for when you need a boost.
Thunderous applauseLiSA
A rock song I’d like to introduce for boosting fighting spirit is “Issei no Kassai.” It’s a track LiSA wrote specifically as a theme song for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Set to an up-tempo sound, the lyrics express the mindset of athletes driving toward victory.
It also portrays the negative feelings players face before a match, making it relatable while lifting your energy.
Another highlight is the sampling of soccer chants, which makes it easy to join in and shout along.
Divine Wind -KAMIKAZE-AK-69
AK-69, who commands overwhelming support not only within hip-hop but also from many athletes.
His song “Divine Wind -KAMIKAZE-” blends lyrics infused with a fierce resolve to live as if ready to die with an aggressive beat that ignites the listener’s fighting spirit.
It’s included on the 2019 album THE ANTHEM and was chosen as the theme song for AbemaTV’s “Grand Sumo LIVE.” With a weighty presence that mirrors the intensity of sumo, it was also selected as a rugby support song—truly an anthem for warriors.
When you’re facing a do-or-die moment or need courage, it’s sure to give you a powerful push forward.
Symphonic Suite Dragon Quest: Overturesugiyama kouichi
A piece that Japan proudly offers to the world, and the theme of the Dragon Quest series—an enduring pinnacle of role-playing games that continues to captivate fans across generations.
For anyone who has played the games, just hearing the opening notes is enough to set your heart racing and bring back memories of countless adventures.
With its richly orchestrated arrangement and hope-filled melody, it’s sure to elevate the mindset of athletes heading into battle.
It’s a number that boosts fighting spirit and motivation while also reminding you to enjoy the competition.
R.Y.U.S.E.I.Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu
This is the 13th single by Sandaime J Soul Brothers from EXILE TRIBE, a seven-member dance and vocal group known for their emotional harmonies and cool dance performances.
The track was used as the campaign song for Tokyo City Keiba, and many people may have tried copying the “Running Man” danced during the instrumental break.
With an ensemble that feels like it’s being drawn up into the sky—evoking the title—and a chorus brimming with exhilaration, the melody both calms athletes’ minds and fuels their fighting spirit.
It’s a dance tune with exceptional clarity that helps you center yourself before a big showdown.
A view I’ve never seen beforeSuda Masaki
Masaki Suda, who stands out as an actor with his distinctive presence and now releases hit songs as a singer as well, delivered this debut single.
The track was used in the popular au commercial series “Santaro,” specifically for the “au BLUE CHALLENGE,” and it’s a rock tune that showcased Suda’s artistic side to the world.
While the sound is refreshingly modern, the arrangement also carries a hint of classic, gritty rock, creating a pleasant synergy with his straightforward vocals.
Its brisk, driving tempo is the kind of energy-boosting number that could serve as a tailwind for athletes.
electric shockYonezu Kenshi
A song by Kenshi Yonezu that served as the theme for the drama MIU404, starring Gen Hoshino and Go Ayano.
The lyrics evoke the storyline of the show! I recommend this as a “go-to” competitive track because, like the two leads in the drama, the lyrics compellingly portray a duo facing challenges together.
It’s perfect before matches in pair sports like table tennis or badminton! Plus, the lavish horn section and the cool, upbeat groove are sure to boost your energy before a game.
