Top 45 Most Popular Soccer Anime [Football Anime]

Following Japan’s disappointing elimination from the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the Japanese Football Union initiates a bold new project with one vision: to identify and cultivate the country’s top high school football talent and dramatically improve Japan’s chances for the 2022 World Cup.

The anime centers on Yoichi Isagi, a gifted but frustrated high school striker still haunted by a recent loss. Everything changes when he is selected for the daring Blue Lock program—a high-stakes, innovative training camp unlike any other.

Blue Lock isn’t a conventional football academy. Its singular purpose: to forge the world’s most relentlessly egocentric striker through intense competition and cutthroat rivalries among the best young players in Japan.

This series delivers an electrifying mix of action-packed matches and high-stakes psychological drama, immersing viewers in a fierce quest for soccer greatness. As of November 2023, Blue Lock’s manga has topped 30 million copies in circulation, reflecting its phenomenal appeal and widespread acclaim.

Aoashi shines as a leading title among sports anime, skillfully combining stunning visuals with an engaging, character-driven narrative. This winning blend makes it highly recommended for both anime lovers and soccer fans alike.

The story follows Ashito Aoi, an ambitious and passionate young talent determined to achieve greatness in the world of soccer. His fierce drive not only fuels his personal journey but also inspires those around him, propelling the team's growth and dynamics.

The stakes rise dramatically when Ashito and his teammates face a devastating setback, presenting a true test of their grit and unity. This turning point intensifies the drama, challenging each character to push past their limits.

Amidst their struggle, the introduction of a mysterious figure brings new challenges and unexpected opportunities, further enriching the storyline. With its dynamic animation, profound character arcs, and gripping emotional moments, Aoashi offers an ideal entry point for those exploring soccer-themed anime.

"Days" returns with a thrilling second season, continuing to captivate audiences with its heart-pounding soccer action and engaging storytelling. Recognized for its vibrant animation and suspenseful match sequences, the series remains a top choice for fans of football anime.

Set during the high-stakes All-Japan High School Soccer Tournament, this season zeroes in on the Preliminary round. The team must face formidable opponents from Toujin Academy, raising the bar for both tension and excitement on the field.

Produced by MAPPA, "Days" excels at portraying intense rivalries and emotional character arcs. Each episode brims with passion and energy, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves sports anime or thrilling stories centered on teamwork and determination.

Inazuma Eleven stands out as a vibrant and action-packed anime that has captured the hearts of viewers around the globe. The series follows the journey of Raimon Middle School’s soccer club as they enter a prestigious and unorthodox tournament, determined to leave their mark on the soccer world.

As the stakes rise, the team members discover and hone extraordinary, superhuman abilities that make their gameplay truly unique. These unbelievable skills electrify every match, turning ordinary soccer games into jaw-dropping spectacles full of suspense and excitement.

The players’ powerful new talents push the boundaries of traditional soccer, thrusting them into thrilling, unpredictable territory where triumph and failure are closely intertwined. The outcome of their courageous adventure shapes the legacy of this unforgettable anime.

If you’re a fan of soccer or dynamic sports stories, Inazuma Eleven is essential viewing. Get ready to dive into a whirlwind of exhilarating action and high-energy competition that will keep you hooked episode after episode.

Get ready for an exhilarating anime experience with "Hungry Heart: Wild Striker." Dive into the life of Kyousuke Kano, a spirited young man living under the shadow of his renowned older brother, a star player for AC Milan.

Refusing to be just a sibling side note, Kyousuke strives to leave his own mark on the soccer world. His journey is shaped by determination to step out from his brother’s shadow and showcase his unique skills. The tension between the brothers adds depth to this story of sports passion.

"Hungry Heart: Wild Striker" is essential viewing for soccer anime fans, blending ambition, emotional moments, and edge-of-your-seat gameplay. Follow Kyousuke’s inspiring quest to claim his own place in the spotlight—this is soccer at its most heartfelt and exciting!

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 stands as a legendary anime that no soccer fan should overlook. Its profound influence on both sports anime and the soccer genre ensures its prominent spot among the most popular soccer anime ever created.

The series follows the journey of Tsubasa, a passionate and ambitious young player determined to make his mark in the world of football. His unwavering dedication fuels the story and offers inspiration to viewers of all ages.

Tsubasa's path is filled with intense challenges and fierce opponents, with each match becoming a test of his skill and spirit. These dramatic rivalries push him to constantly improve, making every game a thrilling experience.

This intensity and character depth make Captain Tsubasa captivating and truly worth watching. If you haven't experienced it yet, now is an ideal time to start.

The 2018 adaptation introduces this beloved classic to a new generation while retaining the timeless charm and excitement that fans have cherished for decades.

"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!" gives viewers an inspiring look into the world of soccer, focusing on overcoming personal limitations and facing powerful opponents. This anime captures the essence of determination and resilience.

Whistle! has rightfully secured its place among our top soccer anime picks, distinguished by its captivating storytelling and unique approach to the sport. Each episode brings something fresh to the table.

The narrative centers on Shou, a young boy who aspires to become a great soccer player. Though he lacks natural talent, his relentless spirit and hard work push him forward.

This compelling underdog tale keeps viewers engaged, offering a powerful message about growth, perseverance, and the ability to improve. Every episode motivates and inspires, making it a standout in the genre.

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!! stands out with its humble yet inspiring storytelling, delivering a refreshingly optimistic perspective on life's challenges. The anime beautifully highlights the value of perseverance and the power of maintaining a positive outlook, no matter the obstacles.

Though the series doesn't shy away from depicting tough and intense situations, its core message centers on how dedication and hard work are crucial to achieving success in various forms.

This heartfelt approach has earned it admiration from many fans. The plot revolves around Sho Ota, a spirited young boy determined to fulfill his dream of becoming a professional soccer player.

To chase this aspiration, Sho embarks on a mission to rebuild the ultimate soccer team, motivating and uniting those around him. His journey is filled with excitement, camaraderie, and genuinely touching moments.

Inazuma Eleven GO transports viewers into a vibrant world filled with excitement and depth, making it essential viewing for anyone who loves anime with intricate, emotionally engaging storylines. Passionate creators have carefully developed the series to build on its compelling roots.

This sequel introduces a new generation of characters, each eager to leave their mark while still respecting the heroes and achievements of the original plot. Their journey strikes a careful balance between nostalgia and fresh adventures.

The fresh protagonists face daunting challenges, testing their spirit and determination at every turn. Their relentless perseverance and teamwork form the heart of the story and draw viewers deeper into the action.

If you enjoy anime that masterfully combines touching storytelling with exhilarating sports scenes, Inazuma Eleven GO is a must-see addition to your watchlist.

"Offside" brings a fresh perspective to soccer anime, distinguishing itself among the genre's top titles. The narrative deftly uses the sport as a metaphor to highlight the struggles and triumphs encountered on the road to greatness, offering viewers more than just on-field action.

Centered around Goro Kumagaya and his teammates, the series delves into both their athletic pursuits and personal dreams. Each match becomes a stepping stone, teaching important life lessons and underscoring the value of hard work and determination.

With its uplifting storyline and well-developed characters, "Offside" resonates with viewers, motivating them to chase their own goals. This unique approach cements its status as a must-watch for fans of soccer anime.

Prepare to be captivated by a heartfelt story that’s an essential watch for any soccer anime enthusiast. "Days" delivers more than just thrilling matches; it offers inspiration that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt unsure about their abilities.

Many dream of greatness but struggle with the belief that only those with innate talent can succeed. This series turns that notion on its head, showing how perseverance and hard work can overcome any obstacle—reminding us every effort truly matters.

At the center is Tsukushi Tsukamoto, whose dedication and resilience push him beyond his limits as he strives toward his aspirations. With the support of his new teammates, he steps confidently into an exciting future.

Join this team as they tackle tough opponents and grow closer, inspiring viewers to unlock their own potential. Their journey is a testament to why these characters deserve recognition among the top soccer anime.

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 stands out for its electrifying rivalries, immersing fans in dramatic, high-stakes soccer battles. The intense internal struggles between teams make this entry especially memorable among the top soccer anime picks.

The series brings together all 11 teams from the Inazuma Eleven universe as they fiercely compete for a rare chance to challenge the legendary Special Battle Eleven. This climactic confrontation commands the spotlight, adding even more excitement to the franchise’s expansive lore.

Every match showcases extraordinary determination and skill, as players push their physical and mental limits to claim victory on the field. These relentless efforts fuel thrilling action and emotional storytelling episode after episode.

Inazuma Eleven: Chou Jigen Dream Match offers fast-paced excitement and is a must-see for soccer anime lovers eager for intense competition and inspiring moments.

Don’t miss the chance to add this gripping series to your watchlist and discover why it’s a top choice in sports anime entertainment!

One Piece never fails to surprise its audience, and its inclusion on this list is well-deserved. The anime frequently features unique special episodes that incorporate sports, infusing fresh energy and fun into the story.

In the Dream Soccer King! special, beloved Straw Hat crew members and familiar faces gather for a friendly soccer match. Competing in the spirited Grand Line Cup, they engage in playful competition and team bonding, offering a refreshing change from their usual adventures.

What sets this episode apart is its lineup of formidable opponents: notable villains from the series join the game, raising the stakes and creating moments that amuse and excite viewers.

Episodes like Dream Soccer King! highlight One Piece’s ability to captivate fans with creativity and charm. These special events are a testament to why the series has a devoted global following.

"Clean Freak! Aoyama-Kun" brings a refreshing twist to soccer anime, blending comedy with a truly original premise. Its unique approach and offbeat humor quickly captivate fans, solidifying its place as a standout title in the sports anime genre.

The series follows Aoyama Kun, an exceptionally skilled and handsome soccer player known for his unparalleled obsession with cleanliness. His germaphobia creates hilarious challenges both on and off the field, making him an unforgettable protagonist.

Despite his strict hygiene rituals, Aoyama's love for soccer is unwavering. He ingeniously maintains his spotless standards during intense matches, ensuring every game reflects his meticulous style and keeping teammates and rivals on their toes.

If you're looking for an anime that mixes lighthearted humor with exhilarating sports action, "Clean Freak! Aoyama-Kun" is a top pick. Its clever blend of comedy and soccer guarantees a memorable viewing experience.

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.

Inazuma Eleven GO: Galaxy delivers an electrifying experience that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The excitement in this series is unmatched, making it a standout entry in the world of soccer anime.

As part of the beloved Inazuma Eleven franchise, this installment elevates the story with fresh elements and innovative twists that enhance its appeal.

Fans of high-quality anime and manga will find plenty to enjoy here, as Inazuma Eleven continues to set new standards for engaging and dynamic storytelling.

This anime promises to be a game changer, capturing the hearts of both new viewers and longtime fans alike.

If you're searching for a thrilling and entertaining soccer anime, Inazuma Eleven GO: Galaxy is a must-watch.

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.

"Giant Killing" stands out with its unique take on sports anime, earning its place among the most popular soccer series.

The story centers on East Tokyo United, a once-glorious soccer club led by the talented Takeshi Tatsumi. His leadership propelled the team to fame, making them the pride of the league.

However, Tatsumi made a surprising decision and left to coach an amateur team, leading many fans and players to resent his actions and doubt his loyalty.

After years away, Tatsumi returns with a mission to restore East Tokyo United to its former greatness. Yet, the scars from his past choices linger, and he faces skepticism and mistrust from the very people he hopes to inspire.

This struggle for redemption and acceptance makes "Giant Killing" a compelling, emotionally charged journey in the world of soccer anime.

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.