Madonna, Justin Bieber, BTS, and Shakira showcased snippets of their popular songs during the World Cup’s first halftime show, which also featured Burna Boy, Ted Lasso, and various Muppets. The show aimed to infuse Super Bowl energy into the World Cup, providing a dynamic 11-minute performance that differed from the standard 13-minute solo act typical of American football halftime shows.
Madonna kicked off the show with her 2000 hit “Music,” accompanied by former Brazilian soccer legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. The performance began with a pre-recorded segment at a roller rink and transitioned to Madonna arriving at the stadium on a dune buggy, singing the iconic lyrics, “Music makes the people come together.”
Conductor Gustavo Dudamel led an orchestra through The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army,” while the Muppets band, featuring drummer Animal, added lively entertainment in the background. K-pop sensations BTS followed suit with a vibrant rendition of “Dynamite,” incorporating a nod to Norway’s Viking culture.
Justin Bieber, hyped up by Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt in character as Ted Lasso, delivered a soulful performance of “Everything Hallelujah” with an acoustic guitar, exuding a relaxed vibe on stage. Shakira and Burna Boy then took the spotlight with their official World Cup anthem “Dai Dai,” with Shakira captivating the audience in a striking yellow and pink feathered dress, surrounded by dancers and children.
The show culminated with the PS22 Chorus, consisting of elementary school students from Staten Island, N.Y., led by Dudamel and featuring Chris Martin, Shakira, and an array of Muppets and Sesame Street characters. The halftime spectacle showcased a blend of musical talent and visual appeal, creating a memorable experience for viewers worldwide.
In the closing ceremony, Jennifer Hudson, Robbie Williams, and others delivered a series of anthems, with Post Malone offering a mix of old and new hits. Tom Cruise delivered a heartfelt speech, emphasizing the unifying spirit of the tournament, as live performances of national anthems added a touch of grandeur to the event.