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] Loved by Athletes Too!? Energizing Anthems and Game-Day Tracks (71–80)
water lily blossomShonan no Kaze
If you want to get pumped up, “Suirenka” is also a great pick.
It’s a reggae song by Shonan no Kaze.
The lyrics depict a summer romance, but because they’re packed with positive phrases, it’s also loved as a fight song.
There are especially many of these lines in the latter half of the track, so listen closely there.
By the way, “Suirenka” is also known for being used as a walk-up song by many baseball players.
Why not give it a listen before something important?
I am the strongest.Ado
A powerful anthem of will and resolve from the film ONE PIECE FILM RED.
Released by Ado in June 2022, the song is notable for lyrics brimming with self-affirmation that wells up from deep within and heartfelt care for one’s companions.
The energetic, exhilarating rock sound crafted by Motoki Omori of Mrs.
GREEN APPLE and Ado’s distinctive vocals truly shine.
The song expresses the feelings of the film’s character Uta, depicting the process of acknowledging one’s own weaknesses and anxieties while overcoming them to grow stronger.
It’s a perfect track for rallying yourself at a sports day or athletic festival, or when you want to strive together with your teammates.
flareSuperfly
The lead single from the 2020 album “0.” It was also used as the theme song for the drama “Scarlet,” and its lyrics, which resonate with the protagonist’s feelings, are encouraging.
Life often takes many detours, and there are plenty of things to worry about.
The free, open vocals sweep away the clouds in your heart, as if clearing the sky.
[Songs to Listen to Before a Match] Loved by Athletes Too!? Power-Packed Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks (81–90)
Gate of GloryHirai Dai
Dai Hirai, who captivates many with his husky voice, wrote “Glory’s Door” as the theme song for “Netto Koshien.” It’s a relaxed ballad, but the lyrics portray a passionate drama.
Rather than focusing on wins and losses in sports, the song conveys that what matters is what you feel and how you act in response.
It’s a piece that stays by your side whether you win or lose.
It will likely resonate with those who used to play sports as well.
breakthroughSUPER BEAVER
A four-piece rock band, SUPER BEAVER has been drawing attention with emotionally resonant messages that pierce the heart and a classic yet modern rock sound.
This is their 13th single overall.
Released as a double A-side together with “I Want to Be Someone’s Pride,” it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Haikyu!! TO THE TOP.
Its straightforward, fast-paced rock ensemble and positive lyrics are sure to lift the spirits of athletes who get nervous before a match.
With powerful vocals that give you courage, it’s an up-tempo tune that makes you feel like you’re fighting right alongside them.
Bloom with a pop, scatter, and turn to ashCreepy Nuts
A song written as an anthem to cheer on those who keep taking on challenges.
It carries a powerful message that turns a negative mindset—doubting your own abilities and feeling the pressure to win by shutting others out—into forward-looking energy.
Released in March 2022, the track was also selected as the official MBS theme song for the 94th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
Created by the two members of Creepy Nuts based on their real-life, do-or-die experiences, the lyrics resonate deeply, offering strong encouragement to anyone heading into the arena of competition.
It’s a highly recommended track for boosting your motivation before an important match or decisive moment.
Runwaymilet
Japanese female singer-songwriter milet made her major debut in 2019 with the opening theme “inside you” for the Fuji TV drama Scandal Specialist Lawyer QUEEN.
The song Runway is included on her second EP, Wonderland EP.
It’s a track that evokes the image of darkness suddenly being enveloped in light—highly recommended before a match!
