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!? Power-Packed Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks (21–30)
Endless JourneyMr.Children
A classic Mr.
Children song that has been sung continuously since its 1998 release.
It’s been used as a theme by many athletes—beloved enough to be adopted not only by global star Ichiro and Makoto Hasebe, but in recent years by Hanshin’s Shintaro Fujinami and Yakult’s Yuhei as well.
It moves you with a strength that fires you up—not just day to day, but especially when you need it most.
Hearing it live stirs something from deep within.
When it really counts, it will always give you strength!
CathartistRADWIMPS
You can’t help wanting to listen to a hype song before a sports match, right? A great recommendation for that is RADWIMPS’ “Catharsist.” It was chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s soccer coverage in 2018, so a lot of people might recognize it.
The song is cool, the rhythm is great, and it really pumps you up before a game.
Kokoro-eroodo obu mejyaa
Listening to anime theme songs about sports before a game really boosts your motivation, doesn’t it? A great recommendation is “Kokoro-e” by Road of Major.
This song was the opening theme for the hugely popular baseball anime series MAJOR, and it can pump you up not just for baseball, but for all kinds of sports before a match.
One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS
A signature song by FUNKY MONKEY BΛBY’S released in 2010.
It’s also a popular high school baseball cheer song, and Rakuten Eagles pitcher Masahiro Tanaka appeared on the cover and in the music video.
Some people may recall the massive sing-along just before Rakuten clinched the Japan Series against the Giants in 2013.
It’s a track that gives you courage at important moments and lets you feel a sure, powerful strength.
ECHOLittle Glee Monster
This is a motivational song by Little Glee Monster that was chosen as NHK’s rugby theme song in 2019.
Right from the start, the chant-like phrase sung in unison by all the members makes you feel your fighting spirit ignite at first listen, doesn’t it? The lyrics are striking, as if powerfully pushing you forward: “All those tough practices and training sessions—you’ve been building them up for this very day, right?!” Listening to this song will remind you of all the effort you’ve put in, and you’ll be able to step onto the field with confidence, thinking, “I’ve got this!”
migratory bird[Alexandros]
![migratory bird[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/O_DLtVuiqhI/sddefault.jpg)
This fast-paced rock number gives listeners a powerful push forward.
Released as a single in June 2015, it has been featured in numerous commercials and TV show themes and is beloved as a staple song for school sports days and athletic festivals.
The lyrics carry the message: “Even if it’s tough, if you keep moving forward, a shining future awaits,” resonating not only with athletes heading into competition but also with anyone anxious about what lies ahead.
If you ever find yourself thinking, “What’s the point of trying so hard?” give it a listen.
It will surely help you lift your head and face forward again.
Kimisidai TrainONE OK ROCK
A song released in 2011.
Its upbeat tempo and momentum will instantly raise your energy! It also drew attention because figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu often listens to it, along with “Kanzen Kankaku Dreamer,” to boost his motivation and fire himself up.
The lyrics saying that only you yourself can make it happen are empowering, too.
Before an important event, tell yourself that—and go for it!