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] Athlete-Approved!? Power-Packed Anthems and Winning Tunes (201–210)
The night before the decisive battleSano ibuki
An anthem by Sano ibuki, celebrated for its exhilarating melody and vocals that soar into the open sky.
Included on the album STORY TELLER, this track was released in November 2019 as the theme song for the animated film Bokura no Nanokakan Sensō (Our Seven-Day War).
True to Sano ibuki’s emphasis on storytelling, the song is crafted with a rich backstory.
It’s a recommended track when you want to steel yourself before a big challenge or need the courage to face something head-on.
Tsunage KizunaTHE RAMPAGE
A heartwarming cheer song released by THE RAMPAGE in October 2022.
It features a powerful message that conveys respect for athletes who fight with a unified heart and a deep appreciation for bonds with teammates.
Chosen as the official theme song for TBS’s broadcast of the 2022 FIVB Women’s World Championship and also used for BS-TBS’s Volleyball Nations League 2023, the track captivates with an energetic sound that reflects the group’s momentum and a melody that resonates emotionally.
It’s a song that will give you courage and energy—perfect for watching sports where you’re moved by athletes giving their all, or for times when your team is striving together toward a shared goal.
no heart rate[Alexandros]
![no heart rate[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/OwLkGMBYL7I/sddefault.jpg)
An uplifting song with a driving rock sound and lyrics that convey straight-ahead passion.
Created by [Alexandros] as the opening theme for the TV anime Ao Ashi, it’s a perfect fit for this coming-of-age drama centered on soccer.
Since its digital release in June 2022, it has captured the hearts of many listeners, reaching No.
13 on the Oricon Weekly Digital Singles chart and No.
97 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.
It’s a track you’ll want to add to any playlist for sports—whether you need a boost in motivation or are pushing toward your goals.
exceed; surpass; go beyond; cross (over)[Alexandros]
![exceed; surpass; go beyond; cross (over)[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/WsEhSXH497I/sddefault.jpg)
A gem of a track by [Alexandros], infused with a strong will to reexamine the past and charge toward the future self.
Released in advance in April 2025 to coincide with the start of the TV broadcast, it serves as the opening theme for the first cour of the TV anime Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray.
While signaling a steady stride toward the future, the lyrics weave in the brilliance and beauty of the past, evoking deep resonance.
It’s a song that speaks to the hearts of not only athletes who continually push their limits, but also everyone striving toward their goals.
Connect!Misaka Saki
This song, written as the support anthem for the 98th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, is included on Saki Misaka’s first nationally distributed EP.
It marked the first time in the tournament’s history that a current first-year high school student was selected.
Depicting bonds with teammates and the mindset of players heading into matches from the perspective of the same generation, it captured the hearts of many.
In January 2020, she performed it at Saitama Stadium 2002 before an audience of about 60,000.
Although it’s a medium-tempo ballad, its pop sensibility combines strength with warmth, gently encouraging not only those dedicated to sports but also anyone striving toward a goal together with cherished friends.
A victorious smile with youUkasukaji
This song delivers a powerful message that resonates deeply: “Move forward with pride in your heart.” Created by Ukkasuka-G, it was released in May 2014 as the official support song for the Japan national soccer team and drew attention as the lead single from the album AMIGO.
The warm vocals born from the collaboration between Kazutoshi Sakurai of Mr.Children and GAKU-MC, along with lyrics that sing of the courage to take on challenges and the importance of bonds with teammates, gently push listeners forward.
It’s cherished as a cheer song for club activities and sports days, and as a source of support for those striving toward their dreams.
WINJay Rock
Here’s “WIN,” one of tennis player Naomi Osaka’s favorite songs.
It’s a track by American rapper Jay Rock, released in 2018 and included on his album Redemption.
The intro, with triumphant brass like trumpets and trombones, really fires you up! The repeated lyrics about “winning” convey a confidence of “I will never lose.” It’s easy to understand why Osaka likes to listen to it.
When the moment calls for it, let’s boost our morale by listening to the same track she does!
