Support songs for the Japan national soccer team: a roundup of classic chants and past World Cup theme songs
Every time international matches are held, starting with the World Cup that comes once every four years, excitement sweeps across Japan.
One thing you can’t do without at Japan national team matches is the support songs!
From chants sung by supporters during matches to theme songs for broadcast programs, countless support songs have been loved over the years.
In this article, we’ll introduce chants sung during matches as well as past theme songs!
We’ll also share the original songs behind the classic chants, so be sure to give those a listen too.
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World Cup Broadcast Theme Songs (1–10)
MugenPorunogurafiti
This is a song that gained popularity as NHK’s broadcast theme for the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Released as a single by Porno Graffitti in the same year, it’s included on the album “WORLDILLIA” and the best-of album “PORNO GRAFFITTI BEST RED’S,” among others.
The lyrics, which strikingly depict human emotions wavering between existence, reality, and illusion from a philosophical perspective, are particularly memorable.
Its powerful melody is also captivating—listening to it really sets your heart ablaze! Even now, it continues to resonate with many people as a song that accompanies moving sports moments and turning points in life.
BLUENEWS
Overcoming a series of member departures, the three-member idol group NEWS continues to thrive, with each member active across a wide range of fields.
Their 23rd major single, “BLUE,” chosen as the theme song for Nippon TV’s FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 coverage, lifts your spirits right from the opening chant.
The contrast between its driving, fast-paced arrangement and its grand choral work conjures up the speed and passion of soccer itself.
It’s a powerful anthem that makes you want to pump your fist as you listen.
A Question Of HonorSarah Brightman
A majestic work that fuses classical and pop.
It begins with an Italian opera aria and transitions into a trance-house style arrangement, leaving a distinctive impression.
The lyrics carry a message that values honor and ethics, resonating deeply alongside Sarah Brightman’s clear, translucent vocals.
Included on the 1995 album “Fly.” It was used in TV Asahi’s soccer broadcasts starting with the Japan vs.
Tunisia match at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Perfect for those seeking a pre-match adrenaline boost.
DAWN (in 2022)DISH//
The four-piece dance-rock band DISH//, who became widely known through hits like “Neko” and “Jinchoge,” contributed “DAWN (in 2022)” as the official theme song for the Japan Football Association’s “SAMURAI BLUE: A New Landscape 2022.” The track appears on Ao (Blue), the band’s second compilation album born from a project commemorating their 10th anniversary.
Its uplifting drum beats and emotional vocals seem poised to stoke the fighting spirit of players on the field.
It’s a rock tune with memorable choral work that lingers in your ears and makes you want to sing along.
IdentityDaikoku Maki
An uplifting anthem that sings about living powerfully.
A single written and composed by Maki Ohguro herself, released in May 2002.
Chosen as the image song for TBS’s soccer program, it helped fuel the excitement leading up to the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan.
While portraying an attitude of continually taking on life’s challenges, it conveys the emotions that sway between dreams and reality.
It offers strength to those who seek to forge their own path through sports.
ONE -for the win-NEWS
This is a cheer song infused with samba rhythms and a burning desire for victory.
Released by NEWS in June 2014 as their 16th single, it was chosen as the theme song for Nippon TV’s coverage of the Brazil World Cup that same year.
Its powerful message—believing in the team’s bonds and aiming for victory—is delivered over an up-tempo sound.
Perfect for those who want to share their passion for soccer with their teammates!
World Cup Broadcast Theme Songs (11–20)
CampioneORANGE RANGE
This is a rousing support song that drew attention as the NHK broadcast theme for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany.
Created by ORANGE RANGE, it features a powerful message that conveys passion for victory and the exhilaration of the match.
The lyrics, portraying players’ emotions and the spirit of fighting alongside teammates, capture the essence of sports.
Released as a single in May 2006, it topped the Oricon Weekly Ranking.
It’s also included on the album “ORANGE RANGE” and was certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of Japan.
Highly recommended when you want to get pumped up!