Photos: Burna Boy reunites with Shakira ahead of World Cup final halftime show

Vanguard Nigeria about 2 hours 2 mins read

Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy has reunited with Colombian music sensation Shakira ahead of their performance at the inaugural FIFA World Cup final halftime show.

On Friday, Burna Boy shared a video on his X account showing the pair exchanging hugs, smiles and laughter during rehearsals for Sunday’s historic event at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, United States.

The Grammy-winning singer accompanied the post with the caption: “Sunday Prep! @shakira See you at the @FIFAWorldCup Final! Dai dai, ikó, dale, allez, let’s go!”

The clip, along with several photos, captured Burna Boy and Shakira dressed casually as they embraced outside production trailers at the stadium while preparing for the highly anticipated performance.

Earlier, FIFA confirmed that Burna Boy and Shakira would perform Dai Dai, the official anthem of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, during the competition’s first-ever Super Bowl-inspired halftime show.

It had previously been reported by PUNCH Online that the traditional 15-minute halftime interval would likely be extended to accommodate the entertainment spectacle, with television broadcasters expected to schedule a break of about 30 minutes.

The expanded interval is expected to include the usual 15 minutes of match analysis alongside an 11-minute musical performance led by Burna Boy and Shakira.

FIFA also announced an extensive lineup for the show, with BTS, Madonna, Justin Bieber, renowned conductor Gustavo Dudamel, the PS22 Chorus alongside Coldplay, and appearances from Sesame Street and The Muppets all set to feature.

Beyond entertainment, the halftime show is expected to highlight global education initiatives aimed at supporting children around the world.

The World Cup final on Sunday will pit reigning Copa América champions Argentina against European champions Spain.

Burna Boy and Shakira previously performed Dai Dai during the tournament’s opening ceremony in Mexico City, where the song was officially introduced as the anthem of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.