Nigerian music star Burna Boy delivered a memorable performance alongside global pop sensation Shakira during FIFA’s first-ever World Cup halftime show at the 2026 final in New Jersey.
The duo performed the tournament’s official anthem, “Dai, Dai,” during the interval of the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina at MetLife Stadium, bringing the curtain down on a star-studded entertainment spectacle.
Having also performed during the tournament’s opening ceremony, Burna Boy and Shakira were joined this time by Uganda’s Ghetto Kids, who added vibrant choreography to the performance.
The historic halftime show also featured pop legend Madonna, who opened the entertainment after the first half ended goalless, while Justin Bieber thrilled fans with an acoustic performance of “Everything Hallelujah.”
Brazilian football icons Ronaldo and Ronaldinho also made appearances, driving onto the pitch to loud applause from the packed stadium. The former World Cup winners had been regular guests throughout the tournament despite Brazil’s elimination in the Round of 16.
Curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, the halftime show lasted 27 minutes and 19 seconds—well beyond the traditional 15-minute halftime interval permitted under FIFA and IFAB regulations.
The introduction of halftime entertainment, alongside other tournament innovations such as extended hydration breaks, has sparked debate among football fans and pundits.
Former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo welcomed the concept but cautioned against allowing entertainment to disrupt the rhythm of the game.
“I would love to see more of it as long as it doesn’t eat into the stipulated duration of the game,” Yobo said.
Former England striker Ian Wright also reacted to the show, joking about Ronaldinho’s oversized tracksuit, while ex-Manchester United captain Roy Keane admitted he was not entirely impressed with the spectacle.
“It was a bit of an anti-climax, but listen, it’s so nice to see Shakira,” Keane said.
The halftime show marked a historic shift for FIFA, introducing an American-style entertainment format to football’s biggest stage for the first time.
