Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy has reunited with Colombian music icon Shakira ahead of Sunday’s FIFA <a href="https://absafricatv.com/the-digital-world-must-recognise-eve-too/” title=”The digital world must recognise Eve too”>World Cup final, as preparations intensify for the tournament’s first-ever halftime show.
The Grammy-winning singer shared a video on his official X account showing the pair enjoying a cheerful reunion during rehearsals at MetLife Stadium, where the highly anticipated final between Spain and Argentina will take place.
The clip captured Burna Boy and Shakira exchanging smiles, laughter and a warm embrace, giving fans a glimpse of the atmosphere behind the scenes before one of the biggest sporting events in the world.
Rehearsals underway for historic halftime show
Preparations have continued at full pace as organisers put finishing touches on the entertainment spectacle scheduled to accompany the FIFA World Cup final.
Burna Boy also hinted at the forthcoming performance in his social media post, expressing excitement about returning to the stage alongside Shakira.
The performance is expected to be one of the highlights of the evening, with football fans across the globe eagerly anticipating the combination of elite football and world-class entertainment.
The halftime show is being introduced for the first time in the history of the FIFA World Cup final, marking a significant milestone for the global football tournament.
Burna Boy makes history
The performance will see Burna Boy become the first Nigerian artiste to perform during the halftime show of a FIFA World Cup final.
His participation further highlights the growing global influence of Afrobeats and the increasing recognition of Nigerian music on the international stage.
Over the past decade, Burna Boy has established himself as one of Africa’s biggest music exports, performing at major international festivals, award ceremonies and sporting events.
His appearance at the World Cup final represents another landmark achievement in his career and another proud moment for Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Shakira returns to football’s biggest stage
For Shakira, Sunday’s performance marks another appearance at a major FIFA event.
The Colombian superstar has built a strong association with international football over the years through several memorable performances linked to the World Cup.
Her collaboration with Burna Boy has generated excitement among music lovers, with many expecting another energetic performance from the two global stars.
Fans have praised the chemistry between both artistes following the rehearsal footage shared online.
Performance follows World Cup anthem debut
Burna Boy and Shakira previously performed together during the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico City.
The duo delivered their collaborative track, “Dai Dai,” which served as the official anthem for the tournament.
Their performance received positive reactions from football supporters and music fans, setting the tone for the month-long competition.
Their reunion ahead of the final has further raised expectations for another memorable performance before a worldwide audience.
Global audience expected
The halftime show is being organised in partnership with Global Citizen and will feature an international lineup of performers celebrating the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Millions of viewers across different continents are expected to watch the entertainment programme alongside the championship match.
Organisers believe the addition of a halftime show will further enhance the global appeal of the tournament by combining sport, music and culture on one stage.
The event is expected to attract audiences beyond traditional football fans, bringing together lovers of music and entertainment from around the world.
Spain, Argentina battle for world title
While the musical performances are generating significant excitement, attention will ultimately turn to the football action as Spain and Argentina compete for the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy.
Both teams have impressed throughout the tournament and will be aiming to end their campaigns by lifting football’s most prestigious prize.
As supporters prepare for the highly anticipated final, Burna Boy’s historic appearance alongside Shakira is expected to add another unforgettable chapter to both the World Cup and the continued global rise of African music.
