Songs to Play Before a Match: Athlete-Approved Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks That Overflow with Power

The night before the decisive battleSano ibuki

Sano Ibuki – The Night Before the Decisive Battle (Official Music Video)

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

THE RAMPAGE / Connect the Bonds (MUSIC VIDEO)

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.

exceed; surpass; go beyond; cross (over)[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Transcend (MV) (Anime “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray” Season 1 Opening Theme)

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.

Outlineimase

[imase] Outline (MV)

An inspiring support song for the 103rd All Japan High School Soccer Championship, vividly portraying the passion of high school students taking on the challenge of competition.

Imase—who devoted his own high school years to soccer—wove this piece from his personal experiences.

Within its majestic soundscape and powerful beat, it paints a striking picture of a boy facing trials, the resolve to rise again after tears, and a future brimming with hope.

Released in October 2024, the song was also performed at the final held at the National Stadium.

It is a warm-hearted anthem that stands with everyone who dedicates their youth to sports and all those who keep challenging themselves in pursuit of their dreams.

Poppin’ RunAina ji Endo

AiNA THE END – Poppin’ Run [Official Music Video]

This is a song by Aina The End that carries a powerful message to ignite the hearts of athletes.

With a bright, light, and upbeat rhythm, it’s a pop dance tune that evokes courage and hope to move forward.

While expressing the beauty of keeping on running and striving toward your goals, it gently reminds us of the importance of not being fixated on winning or losing.

The music video released in November 2024 includes a scene where people celebrate on the podium, raising a gold medal.

It’s the perfect track for daily training or for giving your best while encouraging your teammates.

Connect!Misaka Saki

Saki Misaka – Connect! (Full ver.)

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.

phoenixShonan no Kaze

Fushichou

A 2020 May release from Shonan no Kaze that sings of the resolve to face adversity, set against a powerful fusion of reggae and rock.

Its energetic layers of sound and uplifting message centered on rebirth and revival encourage those who keep moving forward without giving up, even when they hit a wall.

Perfect for building pre-game motivation or boosting a team’s overall morale! A recommended track for athletes who train daily toward their goals.