Top 45 Most Popular Soccer Anime [Football Anime]

After Japan's elimination from the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the Japanese Football Union launches an ambitious new initiative. Their goal: to discover and train top high school soccer players in a program designed to elevate Japan's prospects for the 2022 Cup.

The story follows Yoichi Isagi, a talented high school footballer reeling from a difficult defeat. His fortunes change when he receives a coveted invitation to the revolutionary Blue Lock program—a competition that promises more than typical training.

Blue Lock is no ordinary academy. Its mission is to forge the world's most egotistical striker, creating intense rivalries and fierce competition among participants.

This anime masterfully blends exhilarating sports action with the gripping drama of a winner-takes-all challenge. As of November 2023, Blue Lock's manga has captivated readers, boasting over 30 million copies in circulation—a testament to its immense popularity!

Aoashi stands out as one of the premier sports anime available today, seamlessly blending captivating animation with a compelling storyline. This combination makes it a must-watch for any anime or soccer enthusiast.

The plot centers around Ashito Aoi, a passionate and determined player who dreams of becoming a legendary soccer star. His unwavering dedication drives both his team and the story forward.

The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Aoi and his teammates suffer an unexpected setback, heightening the challenges they face on their journey to the top. This pivotal moment tests their resolve and teamwork.

As tension mounts, the appearance of a mysterious character offers hope and adds new depth to the plot. Thanks to its strong storytelling, vivid animation, and intense emotional arcs, Aoashi is the perfect starting point for anyone interested in soccer anime.

"Days" is an exciting soccer anime that delivers an adrenaline rush with its intense, game-focused storylines. This series stands out for its high-quality animation and gripping matches, earning it a well-deserved spot among the top football anime recommendations.

The narrative centers around the climactic final match at the prestigious All-Japan High School Soccer Tournament. Known for its dynamic characters and emotional moments, "Days" is a favorite among fans of sports anime, particularly those passionate about soccer.

This second season highlights the Preliminary round, where the team faces tough competition against Toujin Academy. Created by MAPPA, "Days" promises plenty of excitement and entertainment with every episode, keeping viewers engaged until the very end.

Inazuma Eleven is a thrilling and energetic anime that has captivated fans worldwide. The story revolves around Raimon Middle School’s soccer club, which boldly enters a unique tournament with hopes of making a mark.

As the competition heats up, the team members begin to develop incredible, superhuman abilities that set them apart from the rest. Their extraordinary moves bring a new excitement and intensity to every match they play.

Through these newfound powers, the players elevate themselves to an entirely new level of soccer, venturing into uncharted territory where victory and defeat hang in the balance. The outcome of this adventure will ultimately define the legacy of the anime.

For this reason, watching Inazuma Eleven is a must for anyone passionate about soccer anime. Prepare to be swept up in the show’s exhilarating spirit and high-stakes action.

Prepare yourself for an exciting anime adventure that is truly mesmerizing! Step into the world of Kyousuke Kano, a young man overshadowed by his older brother—a celebrated professional soccer star at AC Milan.

Kyousuke isn't content to live in his brother's shadow. Instead, he dreams of building his own legacy on the soccer field, determined to prove his individuality and skill. This sibling rivalry brings a fresh perspective to the passion for the sport!

"Hungry Heart: Wild Striker" is a must-see for every soccer enthusiast. Get ready for a journey full of ambition, heartfelt moments, and thrilling soccer action as Kyousuke fights to shine in his own right. Let the games begin!

If you're looking for a soccer anime that sends chills down your spine, "Aoki Densetsu Shoot!" is an experience you shouldn't miss. This captivating series earns its place on our list with its compelling portrayal of the beautiful game.

Often overlooked, "Aoki Densetsu Shoot!" stands as one of the most underrated anime series from its era. Despite this, it has garnered a loyal fanbase thanks to its engaging narrative and dynamic performances.

The series is especially appreciated for its memorable characters whose journeys resonate with viewers. Their passion and growth contribute greatly to the anime's lasting appeal.

The story intensifies when the talented Frankfurt Youth Team from Germany arrives in Japan, ready to take on Kakegawa High in a much-anticipated match. This confrontation promises to leave a lasting impression on fans of the genre.

With everything on the line, the outcome of this match will decisively separate the victor from the defeated, delivering all the excitement and drama soccer fans crave.

Captain Tsubasa is an iconic anime series that no soccer enthusiast should miss. Its enduring legacy secures its place on our list of the most popular soccer anime.

The story centers around Captain Tsubasa, a determined protagonist striving to leave his mark in the world of football. His relentless spirit drives the narrative forward.

Yet, the path to greatness is challenging, thanks to fierce and unforgiving competition. This intense rivalry is what truly shapes Tsubasa, pushing him to his limits.

This dynamic makes the series compelling and well worth your time. If you haven't begun watching it, now is the perfect moment to dive in.

Although this version debuted in 2018, the Captain Tsubasa franchise remains a timeless classic beloved by fans across generations.

"Shippu! Iron Leaguer" centers on a world where robots, guided by their owners, compete in high-stakes tournaments. These machines are pushed to perform at their peak in a thrilling sports setting, making the competition intense and unpredictable.

The story follows a dedicated team of robot athletes aiming to rise to the top of their league. As they progress, they consistently face formidable opponents, forcing them to adapt and push their limits with every match.

The challenges they encounter make their journey both exhilarating and tough, revealing just how much is at stake in their quest for victory. This combination of action-packed sports and unique robotic characters makes "Shippu! Iron Leaguer" a must-watch for anime and soccer fans alike.

"Whistle!" offers a unique look at the challenges one must overcome to stand strong against formidable opponents in the world of soccer.

It's no wonder that Whistle! earns its spot on our list. The show is packed with distinctive qualities that set it apart.

The story follows Shou, a young boy with dreams of becoming a soccer player. While he may not have any natural advantages, his determination shines through.

This underdog journey is a big part of what makes the anime so compelling. Viewers are drawn to stories that highlight growth and the possibility for improvement, making every episode engaging and inspiring.

Dragon League is more than just a standard soccer anime—its central theme revolves around revenge, giving the story a fresh and distinctive edge within the genre.

The narrative focuses on Amon, who brings his son Tokio to Elevenia, a country celebrated as a haven for elite soccer players. This new setting is where legends are made and the competition is fierce.

After Amon is defeated by one of the top players, a mysterious twist causes his son to transform into a dragon. Determined to restore his son, Amon embarks on a challenging journey to improve his skills, take on the elites once more, and reclaim Tokio's true form. This thrilling combination of family, rivalry, and fantasy sets Dragon League apart and promises an exciting viewing experience.

Ginga e Kickoff!! takes a more modest approach in its storytelling, offering viewers a refreshing and optimistic outlook on life and its challenges. Its narrative shines a light on the importance of perseverance and a positive mindset.

The series doesn’t shy away from showcasing tough and intense moments, but it emphasizes that dedication and hard work can lead to success in many different ways.

This is one reason the anime is so well-loved by fans. The story follows Sho Ota, a determined young boy with dreams of becoming a professional soccer player.

To pursue his ambitions, Sho sets out to rebuild the perfect team, inspiring those around him. The journey promises excitement and heartfelt moments.

Inazuma Eleven GO immerses viewers in a richly crafted narrative, making it a must-watch for fans who appreciate anime with deep and engaging storylines crafted by passionate creators.

The series builds on the foundation of the original story, introducing a fresh group of characters determined to carve out their own legacy while honoring the established legacy of the main plot.

These new protagonists face significant challenges along the way. Ultimately, it's their dedication and relentless effort that make the series so compelling to watch.

If you're looking for an anime that blends heartfelt storytelling with intense action, Inazuma Eleven GO is an experience you won't want to miss.

"Offside" offers a refreshing perspective on soccer, making it a standout entry on our list. This series explores the challenges faced on the path to achieving greatness, using soccer as a powerful metaphor for life's broader struggles.

The story follows Goro Kumagaya and his teammates as they confront both their personal and athletic ambitions, learning valuable lessons with every match they play. Through their journey, viewers are reminded that success is attainable for anyone willing to put in the effort.

With its motivational storyline and compelling characters, "Offside" makes a lasting impact, inspiring all who watch. That's why it deserves a special mention among the best soccer anime out there.

Get ready for a story that will truly move you—one that stands out as a must-watch for any soccer anime fan.

Many of us dream of excelling in a specific field, but often feel we lack the natural talent required to succeed. This series reminds us that determination and hard work can still lead to victory, making every effort count.

Tsukushi Tsukamoto embodies this spirit, pushing himself to go above and beyond in pursuit of his goals. With a new team by his side, he looks ahead with hope and ambition.

Watch as this group takes on new challenges and grows closer, inspiring viewers to believe in their own potential. That’s what makes these characters worthy of their spot on our list.

Kakeru and Suguru are two brothers bound by an unbreakable passion for soccer, yet their journeys diverge sharply.

As Suguru excels and becomes a rising star in Japanese youth soccer, Kakeru struggles on the pitch and eventually steps back into a managerial role.

But an unexpected turn of events compels Kakeru to reconsider his path and reignites his desire to play.

Inspired by his dream of representing Japan in the World Cup, Kakeru immerses himself in rigorous training. He also draws motivation from his childhood friend Nana, a soccer prodigy nicknamed the "Little Witch" and a standout player on Japan's women's national team.

Nana's remarkable accomplishments fuel Kakeru’s determination to chase his own ambitions.

Immerse yourself in the thrilling world of "Area no Kishi," where the highs and lows of soccer combine with youthful drive and raw emotion for an unforgettable ride!

Inazuma Eleven: Chou Jigen Dream Match focuses on intense rivalries as teams compete against one another in high-stakes matches. This theme of internal battles makes it a standout addition to our list of top soccer anime.

The series showcases all 11 teams from the Inazuma Eleven universe, each vying for the unique opportunity to take on the elite Special Battle Eleven. This epic showdown is further explored in another installment of the franchise.

Every team pushes themselves beyond their limits, demonstrating incredible skill and determination to outshine their competition on the field.

Inazuma Eleven: Chou Jigen Dream Match delivers non-stop excitement and is essential viewing for any soccer anime enthusiast.

Add this gripping series to your watchlist and experience the best of sports anime entertainment!

It's no surprise, ladies and gentlemen, that One Piece makes an appearance here. The series often features special episodes centered around sports, adding variety and excitement to its storytelling.

In this particular special, our favorite characters come together for a lighthearted soccer match, playing mainly for fun and camaraderie. The event is named the Grand Line Cup, making it an entertaining twist on their usual adventures.

What makes it even more thrilling is that the opposing team consists of some of the show's most notable villains. This unique matchup has captivated audiences and contributed to the episode's popularity.

Moments like these showcase why One Piece is so beloved by fans worldwide. The series consistently surprises and delights, and specials like Dream Soccer King! only add to its enduring charm.

"Clean Freak! Aoyama-Kun" stands out in the world of soccer anime with its refreshingly unique and comedic premise. Fans find its original approach and quirky humor endlessly entertaining, making it a remarkable entry in the genre.

The story centers around Aoyama Kun, an exceptionally attractive and talented soccer player. What sets him apart, however, is his extreme obsession with cleanliness—he is a germaphobe to an unparalleled degree.

Despite his strict hygiene standards, Aoyama never lets anything stop him from playing. He goes to great lengths to ensure every match is as clean and orderly as possible, infusing each game with his unique style.

For those who enjoy quality anime with a humorous twist, "Clean Freak! Aoyama-Kun" is a must-watch. It delivers an engaging blend of comedy and sports that's sure to leave a lasting impression.

Ganbare! Kickers tells the inspiring story of a youth soccer team striving to make their mark in the competitive world of sports. This compelling journey is a major reason why the series earns its spot on our list of top soccer anime.

The show's storytelling dazzles with heartfelt moments and beautifully animated scenes, making it truly captivating for viewers. This impressive quality is a big part of why fans hold the series in such high regard.

Ganbare! Kickers is especially notable for its rich character development, shining a light on the strengths and struggles of each team member. These aspects help foster a deep connection with the audience.

As the series progresses, viewers become increasingly invested in the team's journey, appreciating how grounded the narrative is in realistic challenges and emotions.

If you haven't experienced Ganbare! Kickers yet, it's definitely worth checking out. The adventure and excitement it offers may well exceed your expectations.

"Goal FH" follows the journey of Hikaru Tatsumura, a talented soccer enthusiast with roots in Brazil and a deep love for the sport. Driven by his passion, Hikaru travels to Japan, determined to make a name for himself as a top soccer player.

While Hikaru appears outgoing and cheerful on the surface, he is intensely committed and focused beneath his playful exterior. His exceptional abilities and strength set him apart, making his story captivating to watch.

The anime delves into Hikaru's relentless pursuit of his dream, exploring the challenges he faces along the way. "Goal FH" shines a light on his determination, but also hints that achieving his goals may not be as satisfying as he had hoped.

This show is nothing less than a Journey. And that's why it is placed here on our list. The show talks about a guy named Hikaru Kicker who admires soccer with all his heart.

And that's one of the biggest reasons why he is going to take the extra effort and move forward.

This is what makes the show so impressive to the audience. Let's just say that this journey is going to be tough and fun.

It will be filled with hardships, pain, and suffering. However, when you are someone who is passionate, there's no way anything can stop you from achieving what you want.

This is the reason why this anime is so entertaining and fun.

This show is filled with hype. And the degree to which this hype plays out is absolutely brilliant. The show is said to be one of the best in town.

And that's quite fitting considering that this is a part of the Inazuma Eleven series. That show is absolutely gorgeous.

And this installment takes the concept, adds in new flavors, and makes the entire show a lot more entertaining and captivating.

Let's just say that anyone who appreciates high-quality manga and anime will love Inazuma eleven in every form whatsoever.

And that's one of the biggest reasons why this anime is going to be a game changer for all of us.

Make sure that you give it a go when the situation calls for it.

This web episode dives deep into the story of a segmented team in Inazuma Eleven. And that's why it is placed here on our list.

The show is all about a special team that tries its best to stand out in a match. There's nothing game-changing or unreal in this series.

However, it does set a great example of what a web episode should be. After all, there's no better way to become an absolute beast of a fan of a Series, other than watching all the extra episodes that it has to offer.

And that's what makes fans lose their minds in the first place. Let's just say that there might not be other franchises that will be as fine as this one for all of us.

And so, Inazuma Eleven is our way to go.

Life is filled with a ton of choices. And that's one of the biggest reasons why people appreciate the concept of life so much.

And let's just say that every decision you take in your life is going to shape it in the long run.

And our boy Shun Godai is going to realize the essence of this truth soon enough. He wishes to be a soccer player.

However, his grandfather is a businessman. And he wishes for Shun's appreciation towards his path. Therefore, things are getting a bit complex between both of them.

However, there's no denying that this duo is going to come to an understanding soon enough. And when that happens, things will get more and more interesting.

This is just a special Doraemon movie centered around Soccer. And that's why the entire movie is appreciated so much in the community.

The show is simple. It is about a bunch of scientists who wished to have a game of soccer with their inventions.

That's why a ton of Doraemons came together to make sure that they get their things done on time.

And that's how everything came into place. These Doraemon soon realized that the scientists are not intending to have a pure match.

Instead, they are more inclined on making the game as unfair as possible. However, they will use their intelligence to outsmart the scientists and secure the victory as efficiently as possible.

This show highlights the connection between technology and soccer. And that's one of the biggest reasons why it is placed here on our list.

The show focuses on a ton of characters coming together and making sure that they have the most out of any situation.

This is not only fascinating but also entertaining at the same time. However, it will be filled with a ton of emotional play.

The idea here is that human experimentation can improve the excellence of technology and make sure that they fit its users so well.

However, that isn't going to be all that's necessary for growth. And that's why this show is going to shake you from the core of the same.

The story is all about a guy who had nothing to do with soccer. He was a normal person who took admitted to a relatively new school and was enjoying his life as he wanted.

However, all of this stopped with the presence of a teacher. And let's just say that this teacher is going to shape a star in the making.

This is the story of Shingo, a seemingly simple guy who isn't going to lose his mind that easily.

Instead, he is going to work harder and get a hold of this sport with all his efforts. This is where he will establish himself as an individual with unreal skills and a ton of potential.

Let's hope that we get the chance to enjoy his presence.

This series brings a bit of a dilemma to the table. It talks about a person named Sumire Suo who doesn't have anything to prove his excellence in the sport of soccer.

He is always out there just playing his best and hoping for the same. However, soon enough, he gets a new offer.

He gets approached by his main rival. And this is where things get intense. Why? Because when they eventually meet each other, they realize that this sport is a lot more competitive than they had initially imagined.

And this is why people started appreciating this show so much. Soon enough, the entire show gets filled with amazing characters and their amazing portfolio.

This story dives into the details of the soccer World Cup. Brian Thompson is an ex-reporter who is into soccer now.

And so, he will be striving to achieve his rank with all that he has left in himself. And that's where the fun begins.

While Brian may think that he has nothing going on for himself, this attempt is going to bring some clarity to him.

And that's going to be the game changer here. He will understand that this game is a lot more focused on hard work and determination.

Therefore, one must not focus on talent only and instead, rely on their physical attempts to make sure that they have everything cut out for them by their effort.

Just as true as it sounds.

How would you feel if you got the opportunity to compete in the Fifa World Cup? Well, that's exactly what excites our duo of Teppei and Keisuke Honda who are trying to get themselves into the Fifa World Cup for the year 2014.

And this World Cup is going to be held in Brazil. That's one of the biggest features of it.

However, let's just say that it will be a lot more fun than we would have initially imagined. And that's one of the biggest reasons why Fantasists is going to be a game changer for anime fans.

This show will be motivational for you, while also maintaining the touch of realism and clarity required for any show to be affectionate and fun to watch.

Haru Yamato's indifference towards futsal takes a dramatic turn when he witnesses the extraordinary skills of Tokinari Tennoji, a Japanese futsal player, during the U-18 World Cup.

This experience sparks a newfound passion within Haru, prompting him to eagerly join the futsal club on his very first day at Koyo Gakuen High School.

Within the club, he encounters a diverse array of skilled players, including the captain Toi Tsukioka, who previously played alongside Tennoji in the U-18 team.

Despite the club's talented members, the Koyo Futsal Club faces significant hurdles in building a formidable team capable of competing against powerhouse opponents.

This challenge proves particularly daunting for Haru, who possesses no prior experience or knowledge of the sport.

In any sport, sportsmanship is crucial. After all, that's one of the biggest reasons why any sport is enjoyed so much.

Being earnest towards your opponent and extending a helping hand to them is one of the best things one can perform, in order to make sure that they have a ton of fun in the process.

And that's why the interaction between Kenji and Yuta is going to be a staple for us. While Kenji isn't exactly the most filled person with Sportsmanship, there's no denying that he has some strong qualities going for himself.

And that's why he is placed here. Along with Yuta, he will be able to get a better grasp of any situation in the series.

This story is going to bring together a seemingly lifeless character and a supposedly courageous captain. And this duo is going to trigger the next big thing in their series.

The show is all about a guy named Atsushi Kamiya who is always out there, trying his best to make the most out of any situation.

And he is regarded as the Courageous Captain with unreal skills and excellence with respect to soccer. On the contrary, we have Hideto Tsuji who is a bit lacking in his skills but still stands strong on the field.

And together, this duo is going to make a difference in the game that they are going to get involved in.

This is going to be a lot more fun than you might imagine.

This story is about a team that has had no luck winning any game yet. Yes, that's right. The Koganedai Downtown FC Golden Kids haven't won any games yet.

And they continue to lose one more match. That's where it hits the players. As they realize that their losing streak has reached an unfathomable number of 22, they start practicing like crazy yet again.

They jump onto the field and make the most out of their circumstances. And this is where Golden Kids are going to refine themselves to become much stronger and more powerful for the audience as well as for other players.

This is going to be fun. And let's just say that you wouldn't wanna miss out on it.

This isn't a series. It's a music video that you can watch today itself. And let's just say that this video will be far more entertaining than you might imagine.

This is why it is placed here on our list.

This anime has some interesting features going on for itself. And that's why it is placed here on our list.

The show talks about a team called East Tokyo United that used to be the showstopper thanks to one man, Takeshi Tatsumi.

However, this man decided to leave this team for an amateur one. And that's when people started to hate him and his presence.

However, years later, he came back to bring the team to its level again. But his past activities have ruined his name to the point that people can't trust him blindly again.

And that's why people are going to have a rough time appreciating him and his presence.

This anime is a lot more fun than you might imagine. And while it isn't exactly about soccer matches and stuff, it does strive to give a new perspective to all of us.

This show is a short anime that seems to have its basis on Mifanda which happens to be from MIFA.

MIFA stands for Music Interact soccer For All. And let's just say that this group is going to be a game changer in the long run.

Why? Because this group has a lot of aspects to take care of here. And since the show is light-hearted in nature, the former won't be a problem.

This is a series filled with short and sweet stories about cute and adorable pandas. Who wouldn't fall in love with this combination?

The story is all about a pair of siblings and their life as professional players. However, their growth is nothing less than fascinating for all of us.

And that's one of the many reasons why Kazu and Yasu is a series that you can't help but appreciate all the time.

This is going to be a game changer for all of us. And it is based on real-life events, making it much more relatable and fun.

The story focuses on the life of Kazuyoshi Miura and his elder brother Yasutoshi. The way this duo grew up together in this sport is nothing less than fascinating.

This is a movie that you should watch if you are into hardcore soccer. And it will give you a perspective on soccer that you wouldn't have imagined otherwise.

This is a series that you just can't ignore. And that's why it is placed here. It is focused on a soccer team named Pegasus which was created with the intent of supporting visually impaired children in Chiba Prefectural School.

And this school is made specifically for those who have weak eyesight. However, this is also going to be the game changer for them as they realize the true nature of the sport and dive deep into the complexities and difficulties that the players fall into.

This is fascinating.

This one's a bit childish on the outside. However, you can have a considerable amount of fun with it if you are open-minded.

And that's why it is placed here. It's a movie so you will be able to enjoy it on its own.

And the contents are nothing extreme or mind-numbing. Instead, the contents are fascinating and funny, making the entire series worth all your time and effort.

There's a reason why people admire this show so much. It is absolutely beautiful with its fun and happiness elements revolving around it.

The main character is also extremely entertaining and so, things are bound to be game-changing for us, as time passes by.

This is going to be the work of art that you may need today.