This marked a significant milestone for Nigerian music and the Afrobeats genre on the global stage. The event took place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, U.S., during the 2026 World Cup final, where Burna Boy shared the spotlight with global icon Shakira, performing the tournament’s official anthem, “Dai Dai.”
While Femi Kuti and Rema had graced other FIFA World Cup events, Burna Boy was particularly notable for appearing during the finale’s halftime show. Alongside Shakira, he delivered the anthem to a live audience and millions more watching worldwide. Their performance was further enhanced by the inclusion of Uganda’s Ghetto Kids, whose spirited choreography contributed vibrancy to the event.
The halftime show featured an impressive lineup, also including American musical legends such as Madonna and Justin Bieber. Madonna opened the entertainment segment, followed by Bieber who performed a more subdued acoustic version of “Everything Hallelujah.” Fans had the joy of witnessing Brazilian football greats Ronaldo Nazário and Ronaldinho, who received thunderous applause from the audience.
The performance, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, lasted over 27 minutes, surpassing the typical 15-minute interval traditionally allotted during FIFA matches. This change drew mixed responses: some appreciated the new format, while others criticized FIFA’s decision to include such entertainment in the pivotal football event. Notably, former England striker Ian Wright quipped about Ronaldinho’s oversized outfit, and Roy Keane expressed mild disappointment, calling the event “a bit of an anti-climax” while acknowledging the pleasure of seeing Shakira.
For Burna Boy, this performance underscores the growing prominence of Afrobeats in the global music landscape. In recent years, Nigerian artists have made waves internationally by headlining festivals and contributing to official songs for major sporting events. Burna Boy’s landmark performance not only highlights the genre’s rise but also solidifies its significance beyond music, showcasing Nigerian culture on one of the world’s largest stages.
