Football, or soccer as it’s known in some parts of the world, is one of the most popular sports on the planet. From the crowd’s roar to the thrill of victory, there’s nothing quite like watching a great match.
But what if you could experience the excitement and drama of football in a whole new way? That’s where football/soccer anime comes in. These shows bring the sport to life uniquely and unexpectedly, blending drama, humor, and action to create unforgettable stories.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 30 best football/soccer animes that any sports fan can’t miss. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, these shows will score big with you.
Football/Soccer Animes
So it’s no surprise that there is plenty of great soccer-themed anime out there for fans to enjoy. From sports dramas to comedies, there’s something for everyone. Here are our picks for the best soccer anime of all time. Be sure to add your own favorites to the list!
1. Aoashi
Aoashi is a great football/soccer anime that tells the story of a group of friends who start a football club at their school. The anime follows their journey as they try to reach the league’s top.
The Aoashi anime is a great watch for any football/soccer fan. It has amazing animation and is packed with action. The characters are also very likable, and you cannot help but root for them as they try to achieve their dreams.
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2. Detective Conan Movie 16: The Eleventh Striker
Detective Conan Movie 16: The Eleventh Striker is among the best football/soccer anime movies. The movie is about a professional soccer player named Kaito Kid who mysteriously dies during a match.
However, it is later revealed that he was poisoned and did not die from a heart attack as originally thought. Conan and his friends must investigate who poisoned Kid and why to clear his name. The movie features amazing animation and action sequences, making it a must-watch for any genre fan.
3. Blue Lock
While there are a ton of great football/soccer anime out there, Blue Lock is definitely one of the best. The story follows a young man named Yoichi Isagi, who joins a team of talented but underprivileged players in an attempt to save their school from being shut down.
The series is full of amazing action, heartwarming moments, and plenty of laughs. Blue Lock is worth checking out if you’re looking for a great sports anime.
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4. Hungry Heart: Wild Striker
In “Hungry Heart: Wild Striker,” the main character Kosuke Takahashi is a high school student with a secret: he’s a brilliant footballer but too shy to tell anyone about it.
When he finally decides to join his school’s football team, he quickly becomes the star player, leading them to victory in the national tournament. But can he keep up his winning ways when the pressure is on?
“Hungry Heart: Wild Striker” is a fun and inspiring sports anime that will pump your heart. The characters are likable, and the story is engaging. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of football or sports anime in general.
5. Detective Conan Magic File 6: Fantasista Flower
Detective Conan Magic File 6: Fantasista Flower is one of the best football/soccer anime ever. The story follows a young detective working together to solve crimes. Shinichi Kudo leads the team, a brilliant teenager transformed into a child by a mysterious organization.
The other team members include Ran Mouri, an energetic girl in love with Shinichi, and Kogoro Mouri, a private detective who often gets himself into trouble. The team’s latest case leads them to an underground gambling ring that the Yakuza run. To crack the case, they must go undercover as soccer players.
This means they will have to face off against some of the most dangerous criminals in Japan. Will they be able to solve the case and bring the criminals to justice? You’ll have to watch Detective Conan Magic File 6: Fantasista Flower to find out!
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6. Giant Killing
“Giant Killing” is a soccer anime about East Tokyo United, a struggling professional soccer team. The team hires Tatsumi Takeshi, a controversial coach who is known for his ability to lead underdog teams to victory.
Tatsumi implements innovative strategies and tactics, rebuilds the team’s confidence, and develops the characters well. The show does an excellent job of depicting the tactical side of soccer and the challenges and difficulties facing a struggling team. Overall, it’s a compelling and realistic portrayal of the world of professional soccer.
7. Days
This story will change your life, even if you only read it once. It’s one of the main reasons why you should give it a shot. Some people might lack talent, but that doesn’t mean they can’t accomplish their goals.
In Tsukushi Tsukamoto’s case, he knows hard work can get him ahead and wants his team to give him all they’ve got. His group will end up more than just an average group, which are some of the main reasons we would put them on our list.
8. Inazuma Eleven
Inazuma Eleven is a popular football/soccer anime that has been ranked as one of the top best soccer anime of all time.
It was first released in 2008 and revolved around the story of a young boy named Mark Evans, who joined a team of talented players to participate in a football tournament. The anime has exciting matches and characters that will keep you entertained. If you’re looking for a good soccer anime, Inazuma Eleven is worth checking out!
9. Captain Tsubasa (2018)
In 2018, a new anime series based on the Captain Tsubasa manga was released. The story follows the original manga closely, with Tsubasa Ozora and his friends from Nankatsu Elementary School striving to become the best footballers in Japan.
The new series features updated artwork, animation, and a more modern setting. It has been very well-received by fans of the original manga. It is worth checking out for any football/soccer anime fan!
10. Farewell, My Dear Cramer Movie: First Touch
As the summer ends, so does our favorite football anime: “Farewell, My Dear Cramer.” The first touch movie follows Nozomi and her friends as they prepare for their final match of middle school.
Nozomi is determined to make it to the high school team, but she knows she must first say goodbye to her friends. The movie is heartwarming and emotional and a must-watch for any series fan.
11. Ani X Para: Who Is Your Hero?
The Paralympics have been gaining more and more attention, but not all countries actually participate in these games. The Tokyo Paralympics 2020 had a large collaboration of studios, with ‘Ani x Para’ being their collaborative work.
Our idea was to highlight the power of the Paralympics and make room for people to appreciate and recognize them. All these emotions were united in this show to tell a story of how powerful and important they are as a form of expression.
12. One Piece: Dream Soccer King!
Returning to the end of our list, you might wonder why One Piece is ranked high. And that’s because it focuses on the lives of our lead characters, who happen to be having a soccer match just for fun.
It also has characters from other countries and sports like rugby, flying, fish riding, golfing, and more. The championship is called the Grand Line Cup, and the competitors are none other than the villains.
This is part of why people enjoy One Piece so much because it does what no other anime series does before it by putting villains in the middle of a sports game instead of leaving them in their villainous position. And that’s just one reason why people love One Piece.
13. Whistle!
Whistle! is an anime show created in 2002 and ran for two seasons. It follows the story of Shō Kazamatsuri, a young boy who dreams of becoming a professional soccer player.
The show chronicles his journey as he joins a new school and team and works hard to improve his skills. The characters in Whistle! are all likable and hardworking, making rooting for them easily.
The animation is also top-notch, making the action scenes enjoyable to watch. If you’re looking for an inspiring and feel-good soccer anime, then Whistle! is definitely worth checking out.
14. Ginga E Kickoff!!
“Ginga E Kickoff!!” is a soccer anime that follows a group of elementary school students who are passionate about soccer. The main character, Ouzou Furuya, is a boy who dreams of becoming a soccer player but faces many obstacles, including the lack of a proper team to play with.
With the help of his friends, Ouzou sets out to form a team and compete in the national soccer tournament. Along the way, they face challenges such as finding a coach and dealing with rival teams who are determined to win at any cost.
The show does an excellent job of portraying the excitement and energy of soccer, as well as the teamwork and determination required to succeed. The characters are well-developed, with each player having their own unique personality, strengths, and weaknesses.
“Ginga E Kickoff!!” is a great anime for anyone who loves soccer, but it’s also a heartwarming and inspiring story about the power of friendship, perseverance, and teamwork. Whether you’re a soccer fan or not, this anime is worth checking out.
15. Inazuma Eleven GO
Inazuma Eleven GO is a 2011 Japanese anime television series based on the video game series of the same name by Level-5. The series was directed by Tetsuo Yasumi and written by Hiroyuki Yoshino, with character designs by Tomoko Miyata. It aired on Tokyo TV from May 8 to December 23, 2011.
The story follows Raimon Jr.’s High School soccer team trying to defend their title against new and old rivals. The team is joined by new members, including the mysterious Shūya Gouenji, who has returned after a three-year absence.
Inazuma Eleven GO received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the show’s improved animation quality and focused on more serious themes. In contrast, others felt it was too similar to its predecessor and lacked originality. The series was a commercial success, selling over 1 million DVDs and Blu-ray discs.
16. Inazuma Eleven GO: Galaxy
Inazuma Eleven GO: Galaxy is the third and final installment of the Inazuma Eleven GO anime series. The story follows the adventures of a young soccer player named Asuto Inamori, who joins forces with a team of talented players from across the galaxy to take on an evil soccer team known as “The Fifth Sector.”
Inazuma Eleven GO: Galaxy is a must-watch for any fan of soccer or sports anime in general. The action is intense, the characters are likable and relatable, and the story is fascinating. If you’re looking for an enjoyable and exciting soccer anime, Inazuma Eleven GO: Galaxy should definitely be at the top of your list.
17. Offside
“Offside” is a soccer manga that tells the story of Takagi, a high school student who dreams of becoming a professional soccer player. Takagi is talented and passionate about soccer, but his small stature and lack of experience make it difficult for him to succeed.
The story follows Takagi as he joins his high school soccer team and works to improve his skills and prove himself on the field. Along the way, he faces challenges such as competing with his more experienced teammates and dealing with personal issues that affect his performance.
The manga does an excellent job of portraying the intense pressure and competition in the world of soccer and the personal struggles that players face both on and off the field. The characters are well-developed, with each player having their own unique personality, strengths, and weaknesses.
Overall, “Offside” is a great read for anyone who loves soccer and enjoys stories about personal growth and overcoming challenges. Whether you’re a fan of sports manga or not, this series is definitely worth checking out.
18. Clean Freak! Aoyama-Kun
“Clean Freak! Aoyama-Kun” is a sports anime that follows the story of Aoyama, a talented soccer player obsessed with cleanliness. The series explores the importance of teamwork and the challenges high school athletes face.
Despite the pressures, the team learns to rely on each other and work together to overcome obstacles. With its unique premise and quirky characters, “Clean Freak! Aoyama-Kun” delivers a lighthearted and humorous viewing experience while promoting a positive message about acceptance and teamwork.
19. Inazuma Eleven: Chou Jigen Dream Match
Inazuma Eleven: Chou Jigen Dream Match is an anime television series based on the video game franchise of the same name. The series was produced by Level-5 and aired on Tokyo TV from April 5, 2011, to September 27, 2011.
The story of Inazuma Eleven: Chou Jigen Dream Match focuses on Raimon Junior High School’s football team as they compete in the Football Frontier International Vision 1 Tournament.
The tournament is a competition between schools worldwide, and Raimon is determined to win it. However, their path to victory is fraught with challenges, as they must face some of the strongest teams in the tournament.
Inazuma Eleven: Chou Jigen Dream Match is an exciting and action-packed anime that will appeal to fans of sports anime and video games alike. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping ride, this is definitely the anime for you!
20. Days Second Season
“Days” is a soccer anime that follows the story of Tsukamoto Tsukushi, a high school student who is new to the sport but deeply loves soccer. The anime’s second season picks up where the first season left off, as Tsukushi and his teammates continue to train and improve their skills in preparation for upcoming matches.
Throughout the second season, Tsukushi and his teammates face off against strong opponents, including rival teams from other schools. The series also delves into the characters’ personal lives, exploring their friendships, rivalries, and struggles on and off the field.
Overall, “Days” is a heartfelt and inspiring sports anime that showcases the power of hard work, determination, and teamwork. The series is a must-watch for soccer and sports anime fans, and its second season continues to deliver a compelling story and engaging characters.
21. Ganbare! Kickers
Ganbare! Kickers is a sports anime that follows the story of a group of young football players. The show is set in the city of Shizuoka. It follows the team as they attempt to win the national championship.
The anime is full of action and features some amazing football scenes. It also has a great cast of characters, each with its own unique personality. If you’re a fan of sports anime, then Ganbare! Kickers are definitely worth checking out.
22. Soccer Fever
“Soccer Fever” is the passion and excitement surrounding the sport of soccer, seen during major tournaments where fans gather to support their teams. It’s not limited to fans, as players and coaches feel the pressure to perform at the highest level.
The fever unifies people from different backgrounds and cultures, creating a sense of community and shared experience that transcends borders and languages. Soccer fever celebrates the sport and the people who play and support it.
23. Fantasista Stella
Fantasista Stella is one of those sleepers hits in the soccer anime genre. It’s a story about a girl named Asako who dreams of becoming a professional player. She enrolls in an all-girls soccer academy and quickly learns that she has much to learn to make her dream a reality.
The series follows Asako’s journey as she grows as a player and learns what it takes to be a top-level athlete. Along the way, she meets colorful characters and makes great friends (and rivals). Fantasista Stella is ultimately a feel-good story about following your dreams and never giving up.
If you’re looking for an inspirational and heartwarming soccer anime, you can’t go wrong with Fantasista Stella.
24. Shippu! Iron Leaguer
“Shippu! Iron Leaguer” is a mecha anime series that centers around a futuristic sport called “Robot Kyojin” (Robot Giant), where teams of giant robots battle it out on the field. The story follows the young protagonist, Ken Kurenai, as he joins the ragtag team of the Superhuman Warriors and helps them overcome various challenges on and off the field.
Along the way, Ken and his teammates learn the true meaning of teamwork and sportsmanship, ultimately leading them to become one of the top teams in the league. The series is a fun and exciting mix of mecha and sports genres, with thrilling battles and engaging characters.
25. Dragon League
“Dragon League” is an anime series that revolves around a sport called Dragon League, where teams of dragon riders compete in battles. The story follows a young boy named Tsubasa, who dreams of becoming a Dragon League champion.
He forms a team with other aspiring dragon riders, who work to improve their skills and overcome various challenges. Along the way, Tsubasa learns the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship and the power of believing in oneself. The series is a fun and exciting mix of fantasy and sports genres, with thrilling battles and lovable characters.
26. Goal FH
To be the best, you have to beat the best. That’s the philosophy behind Goal FH, a professional football/soccer anime. The anime follows the story of a young man named Asuto Inamori, who dreams of becoming a professional footballer.
He joins the youth team of his local club but quickly realizes that he is way out of his league. However, with hard work and determination, Asuto slowly improves and catches up to his teammates. The anime is full of intense matches, training montages, and plenty of inspiring moments. It’s one for football/soccer fans or anyone who enjoys a good sports anime.
27. Chao Zhi Neng Zu Qiu
Chao Zhi Neng Zu Qiu, or “Catch Up With The Ball,” is a Chinese anime about a group of friends who form a soccer team. The anime follows the team as they compete in various tournaments and attempt to improve their skills.
While the show is light-hearted and comedic, it also deals with more serious themes, such as teamwork, dedication, and determination. Chao Zhi Neng Zu Qiu is an inspiring and motivational story that will appeal to fans of soccer/football and sports anime in general.
28. Moero! Top Striker
In Moero! Top Striker Gino is a talented but under-appreciated striker on the Genoa team. He works at his family’s pizzeria while not on the field. One day, he meets a girl named Sara, who has just moved to Genoa from Milan. She’s a big soccer fan, and she convinces Gino to let her train him to be a better player.
With Sara’s help, Gino realizes his potential as a striker. He scores some important goals for Genoa and starts to attract attention from other teams. However, when Gino is offered a spot on the Milan team, he has to decide whether to stay with his hometown team or move up to the big city.
Moero! Top Striker is an inspiring story about following your dreams and believing in yourself. It’s also packed with exciting soccer action to keep you on the edge of your seat.
29. Ashita E Free Kick
“Ashita E Free Kick” is a soccer manga that follows the story of Takeshi, a young boy who dreams of becoming a professional soccer player. Takeshi is a talented player, but he struggles with a lack of confidence and the pressure to succeed.
Along the way, he learns important lessons about teamwork, determination, and overcoming obstacles. The manga features exciting soccer matches and well-developed characters, with each player having their own unique personality and motivations.
“Ashita E Free Kick” is a great read for anyone who loves soccer and enjoys stories about personal growth and overcoming challenges.
30. The Doraemon’s: Goal! Goal! Goal!
“The Doraemon’s: Goal! Goal! Goal!” is a soccer-themed movie featuring the beloved robotic cat from the future, Doraemon, and his young friend, Nobita. The story revolves around a magical soccer ball that can grant wishes, which falls into the hands of Nobita and his friends.
They form a soccer team and use the ball’s powers to help them win matches, but they soon realize that winning isn’t everything. Along the way, they learn important lessons about teamwork, fair play, and the true meaning of friendship. The movie is a fun mix of sci-fi, fantasy, and sports and is a must-watch for Doraemon fans and soccer enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, football/soccer anime has become increasingly popular over the years, with many captivating stories and engaging characters that have captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Whether you are a die-hard football fan or enjoy anime, there is something for everyone on this list of the top 30 best football/soccer animes.
From classic series like “Captain Tsubasa” to newer ones like “Haikyuu!!” and “Days,” these animes showcase the passion, teamwork, and sportsmanship that make football/soccer such a beloved sport. So, don’t miss out on the excitement and drama of these amazing animes, and get ready to kick off your own football/soccer adventure.
