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 Favorites!? Energizing Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks (41–50)
horizonback number
“Suiheisen” (Horizon) is a digital single by back number released in 2021.
The song was created in response to the cancellation of the 2020 Inter-High School Championships and was initially unveiled as a surprise exclusively on their official YouTube channel.
Its lyrics carry a message to the high school students who couldn’t compete, making it an encouraging anthem that lifts your spirits.
With its steady tempo and powerful sound, it’s a track that boosts motivation—definitely give it a listen!
As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE
This song is hugely popular not only as a sports anthem but also as a cheer-up song for life, so it’s definitely one we can’t leave out! Before a game, you might overthink things and lose confidence.
But listening to this track will lighten your heart with the message: “Even if you fail, you can reset and try again as many times as it takes!” It’s also said that Miwa Yoshida’s vocals have a 1/f fluctuation quality, which makes her voice soothing and therapeutic.
It’s perfect for calming your mind and boosting your concentration.
You, the Sheep, and the BlueRADWIMPS
A track from RADWIMPS’ fourth major-label album, Zettai Zetsumei, which was released in March 2011.
It was also used as NHK’s soccer theme song that year, so in that sense it might be perfect to listen to before a sports match to boost your motivation.
Even aside from that, it’s definitely an upbeat, major-key song that lifts your spirits, so it could be a good one to put on when you’re feeling down.
Don’t give upZARD
This song is a classic cheer anthem that’s deeply familiar as the marathon support song for 24-Hour TV, and you often hear it on television in other contexts too! It has a strong image as “the marathon song,” which is why it’s hugely popular as a sports cheer song.
Its quintessential ’90s J-pop sound will gently wrap your heart.
When you listen to the lyrics, which carry a message like “Don’t give up until the end!!,” you’ll be able to focus and fight through the match that’s about to begin.
GO FOR IT!!Nishino Kana
Kana Nishino’s 18th single, “GO FOR IT!!,” released in 2012.
With a music video featuring cheerleaders and a rousing chorus that shouts the title, it’s safe to call this a quintessential cheer song! Her bright vocals add even more sparkle to the lively vibe.
It’s one of the best tracks to boost your morale—not just before a game, but also before exams or an important task.
I mean, the title itself basically says, “Just go for it!!”
ultra soulB’z
It was the official theme song for the 2001 FINA World Championships.
In 2011, an arranged version titled “ultra soul 2011” was released, and in 2013 the song was used again—so for many people, this tune is synonymous with the World Aquatics Championships! Not just for swimming, it’s a track that can massively boost your motivation before a match and fill you with the strength to shake off pressure.
The lyrics carry a strong message and are really compelling to listen to!
You who fightThe Back Horn
The Back Horn is known for lyrics that delve into the human inner world.
They created “Tatakau Kimi yo” with the hope that people on the verge of giving up will start running again.
As the title suggests, it focuses on those who strive, but it also portrays negative emotions, resulting in a song that feels close and supportive.
That’s likely one reason it resonates with so many listeners.
Also not to be missed is the intense sound that spurs on those who are giving it their all.
Listening to it will surely fill you with motivation.
