15 Best Anime Of 2022 (So Far)

Sports anime are a behemoth in the industry. There are plenty of beloved shows that focus on competitive games, but Aoashi has come along and proven in a very short time that it's one to be reckoned with.

Ashito Aoi is a football prodigy. He's the sole driving force behind the success of his high school team, but after an outburst during a tournament, he is banned from the game. However, things soon look set to change for him as he's scouted by a coach who thinks he has what it takes to take the Japanese football world by storm.

This compelling sports anime thrives on the central character's unpredictable nature and hopes to prove that he's not a big fish in a small pond. There's this animalistic passion to Aoi, which is strikingly presented with visual metaphors and fast-paced action.

Plus, unlike other sports anime that highlight the camaraderie and team spirit of the game, this show delves into the competitive intensity of football. You get easily sucked into the tension as the masterful direction makes every moment feel like a life or death situation, with losing not being an option.