Blue Lock: Best Episodes, Ranked

Summary

Blue Lock‘s standout storytelling and characters make it a must-watch for sports anime fans worldwide.
Select episodes like “Last Attack” and “Not Alone” excel in emotional intensity and gameplay excitement.
Each arc showcases well-developed character growth and action, setting a high standard for the series.

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the captivating world of Blue Lock, I must say that this series has truly taken my breath away. Each episode is a masterclass in storytelling and character development, with every moment brimming with tension, drama, and raw emotion.

One of the episodes that stands out to me is “Last Attack,” the final showdown between Japan U-20 and Blue Lock Eleven. It’s a testament to the transformative power of football and the indomitable spirit of its players that Rin Itoshi, who was once a mere shadow of his older brother, manages to outshine him on the field. The way he single-handedly dismantles Japan U-20’s Iron Quartet is nothing short of spectacular!

But it’s not just about Rin. Isagi’s growth throughout the series and his crucial role in the final match are a testament to his determination and resilience. Seeing him score the match-winning goal was a moment that will forever be etched in my memory.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go rewatch these episodes…again. Because let’s face it, no matter how many times I watch them, they never fail to leave me in awe! And just when you thought football couldn’t get any more intense, remember: in Blue Lock, even the referee has a heart condition!

The one-of-a-kind storyline and quirky personalities found in ‘Blue Lock’ have gripped the hearts of sports anime enthusiasts across the globe, making it a shining star within the genre. This series has even attracted notice beyond the typical sports anime audience due to its compelling narrative.

Each installment in the series is meticulously crafted, offering an ideal blend of character evolution and action. Choosing the finest episode from Blue Lock is a challenging task, but there are certainly some that excel notably due to their powerful emotions, gripping drama, and the thrilling soccer games they depict.

8. Season 1, Episode 22: “Rush”

Bachira Tames the Monster Inside His Head

IMDb rating: 8.8
Arc: Second Selection Arc

As they stand poised to become the initial squad to move past the second round, Isagi, Nagi, Chigiri, and Baro’s team encounter Rin, Jyubei, Bachira, and Tokimitsu. Both sides are eager to secure the decisive goal in this tight match, as players on either end strive to bring an end to this arduous contest on their own terms.

From my perspective, it’s not about selecting the correct option; rather, I’ll ensure that the road I take becomes the correct one. That seems to be the key to reaching the pinnacle. Consequently, what I rely on the most is not reasoning, but a gut feeling.

In a team setting where everyone is committed to success, none show as deep an emotional and mental involvement as Bachira, who undergoes a distinctive change. Previously relying on the inner voice to fuel his on-field ingenuity, he now starts to doubt this reliance. The narrative unfolds around Bachira’s psychological journey, which alters his performance and aids him in growing into an even more exceptional player.

7. Season 2, Episode 7: “Itoshi Sae”

Japan’s High-Intensity Game Kicks Off on a High Note

IMDb rating: 8.8
Arc: U-20 Arc

With the future of Japanese soccer uncertain, the U-20 squad readies itself to challenge Jinpachi Ego’s Blue Lock Eleven. The crowd buzzes with excitement as top footballer Itoshi Sae gears up for the match. In just seven minutes, this talented world-class player makes an impact by scoring the opening goal.

For the first time, I’m experiencing these emotions, and I hope to grasp his annoyance better by having a game of soccer with him. I’d like to give it my all.

In the thrilling “Itoshi Sae” episode, the Japanese U-20 squad exhibits an overwhelming strength compared to Ego’s motley crew of strikers, who are fighting tooth and nail to salvage their careers. Meanwhile, the players in Blue Lock Eleven show incredible determination to shift the tide of the game.

6. Season 1, Episode 1: “Dream”

Jinpachi Ego Sows the Seed for Japan’s Ascent

IMDb rating: 8.4
Arc: Introduction Arc

As a former aspiring star striker myself who also faced similar setbacks, I can empathize with Isagi Yoichi’s situation. His dreams of stardom may seem unattainable after failing to make it to the nationals, but that doesn’t mean they are impractical. The road to success is often filled with obstacles and disappointments, but it’s how we respond to them that defines us.

When I received a letter offering me a chance to join a Player Improvement Project, I saw it as an opportunity to prove myself, not just a tempting offer. If Isagi can keep his emotions in check and remain focused on his goals, this could be the break he needs to take his career to the next level. It’s important for him to remember that every setback is a setup for a comeback, and with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.

I wish Isagi the best of luck as he embarks on this new chapter in his journey towards becoming a star striker. I hope he takes advantage of the opportunity before him and continues to chase his dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem.

In an uncertain future, Isagi eagerly seizes the opportunity that comes his way. However, nothing could have forewarned him about the extraordinary voyage he was on the verge of starting unawares. The series’ opening, “Dream,” masterfully establishes its theme through Jinpachi’s inspiring discourse and the presentation of Blue Lock’s ruthless ideology.

5. Season 1, Episode 18: “The Stage for the Lead”

Baro Sets Out to Stamp His Authority

IMDb rating: 9.1
Arc: Second Selection Arc

In the second round, Baro suffered a defeat in the opening match and was chosen by Isagi and Nagi. This didn’t sit well with his self-esteem. But when they faced off against Kunigami, Chigiri, and Reo, Baro felt even more excluded and overpowered. The synergy between Isagi and Nagi, utilizing Baro’s abilities to elevate their game, made him feel further behind. Fueled by his competitive spirit and ambition for victory, Baro underwent a significant transformation to turn the tide of the game.

4. Season 1, Episode 10: “Just the Way It Is”

Team Z vs. Team V

IMDb rating: 9.1
Arc: First Selection Arc

In Blue Lock, the initial phase of selection features five teams engaged in round-robin matches, each striving to stay afloat amidst the ruthless competition within the facility. The specter of elimination looms over them all, and Team Z readies itself for a clash with formidable rival Team V. The climactic game of this first phase, titled “Just the Way It Is,” spotlights the growth of protagonists Isagi and Nagi as players throughout their intense and exhilarating match.

3. Season 2, Episode 13: “Not Alone”

Rin Evolves as Blue Lock Eleven Tries to Contain Shido

IMDb rating: 9.3
Arc: U-20 Arc

As the Japan U-20 match against Blue Lock Eleven enters its decisive phase, with both teams tied, Ryusei Shido, who’s been outstanding all game, keeps pressing forward on the opposition’s defense line, aided by Sae. However, Rin, fueled by an inner fire and driven to prove himself superior, especially against his brother, is preparing for a comeback.

“Not Alone” presents a thrilling exploration of individual greatness and the incredible impact of collective determination, emphasizing the profound transformation achieved when everyone commits to a common objective.

2. Season 2, Episode 11: “What You Taught Us”

Baro Inspires Blue Lock Eleven

IMDb rating: 9.2
Arc: U-20 Arc

Entering the match as a substitute, Ryusei Shido significantly alters the course of the game with an astonishing goal that tips the balance in favor of his team. However, he doesn’t stop there; he escalates his impact and transforms into an even more formidable striker by triggering the Big Bang Drive, creating a lead for his team in the process.

On the field, there is already one true king.

Under intense pressure, Blue Lock resorts to deploying the enigmatic Baro, whose peculiar and erratic playstyle causes confusion in Japan U-20’s defense. In an unexpected twist, Shido scores an impressive goal, and Baro’s unique style of play sparks inspiration among other players. Gradually, one after another, they find their rhythm and performance significantly improves.

1. Season 2, Episode 14: “Last Attack”

Blue Lock Eleven’s Shocking Victory Over Japan U-20 Team

IMDb rating: 9.5
Arc: U-20 Arc

Following an extraordinary metamorphosis, Rin Itoshi bravely confronts Japan U-20’s formidable Iron Quartet and demolishes their defensive barriers. In a pivotal shift of fortunes, he also triumphs over his elder brother for the first time, demonstrating that he is steadily climbing the ladder towards footballing excellence. Simultaneously, Isagi seizes this opportunity initiated by Rin to net the decisive goal and carve out a niche in Japanese football.

Stepping into the shoes of a fervent fan, I can’t help but express my excitement over the riveting episode titled “Last Attack”. This thrilling installment takes us on an exhilarating journey through the nail-biting last minutes of the intense clash between Japan U-20 and Blue Lock Eleven. It encapsulates a pivotal moment in Japanese football, hinting at its imminent domination under the indomitable spirit of Jinpachi Ego.

Brimming with dramatic twists, pulse-pounding action sequences, and raw emotions that tug at your heartstrings, “Last Attack” is undeniably the standout episode in the series thus far. It’s a must-watch for any football enthusiast!

2025-01-04 22:35