With the 2026 World Cup now underway, soccer fans are glued to every match. But for those who feel they’ve missed the boat or don’t know the rules well, the anime DAYS offers a perfect entry point. This column, part of a series highlighting eight soccer-themed anime, turns its focus to the story of a complete beginner who proves that starting late means nothing.
About the Anime
Based on the manga by Yasuda Takeshi, DAYS follows Emukae Tsukushi, a high school student with zero soccer experience. After being invited to play futsal by Kazama Jin, Tsukushi falls in love with the sport and joins the prestigious Seiseki High School soccer club. Among a sea of talented players who have trained since childhood, Tsukushi stands out only for his sheer determination.
The Power of Running
In soccer, stamina is everything. Tsukushi has no polished skills, but he has one weapon: his ability to run endlessly. From the very first practice match, he runs without thinking, making sloppy passes and ignoring positions. Yet his teammates, though initially dismissive, begin to appreciate his relentless effort. They throw him advice with rough affection: “If you make that bad pass again, I’ll kill you!” but also “Use your head!” and “Learn to take breathers!”
This persistence even reaches Kazama, a so-called “genius” who had lost his joy in soccer. Through Tsukushi, Kazama rediscovers the fun of the game.
Hard Work Doesn’t Always Pay Off
The anime doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of competitive soccer. A memorable scene comes during the Inter-High selection. When the final spot is announced, it’s Tsukushi’s name that is called, not the senior Kasahara’s. Kasahara, who had worked hard for years, could have been bitter. Instead, he smiles and offers to help Tsukushi practice shooting. The moment is heartbreaking, highlighting that effort alone doesn’t guarantee a place.
Defeat Makes You Stronger
In the Tokyo qualifiers for the Inter-High, Seiseki loses to rival Toritsu Sakuragi High School. The protagonist’s team does not automatically win. The pain of defeat is shown realistically, with Tsukushi shouldering blame. But his teammates push him forward, and the team regroups for the national tournament. This honest portrayal of failure and recovery is what makes DAYS resonate.
Soccer Tactics for Beginners
A standout feature of DAYS is how it explains soccer strategies in simple terms. For example, when focusing on defenders, the anime asks, “What do you hate most as a player?” It teaches that the worst thing for a forward is to lose the ball, and so defenders are told to actively steal it. The characters explain positions and tactics to Tsukushi, making the sport accessible to viewers who may feel lost watching the World Cup.
Today’s match between Japan and the Netherlands ended in a 2-2 draw—a tense battle that has fans on edge. For those who feel it’s “too late” to understand soccer, DAYS shows that pure enjoyment is the first step. Watch the anime, root for Tsukushi, and you might find yourself cheering for Japan with a deeper understanding.
（Ｃ）安田剛士・講談社／「DAYS」製作委員会
《村田真琴》
