The Grammy-winning singer received loud cheers from fans as behind-the-scenes clips captured his entrance before the much-anticipated show. While Burna Boy kept his look understated with a simple outfit, his commanding presence and unmistakable charisma ensured he remained one of the standout performers of the evening.

The halftime show transformed the stadium into a vibrant celebration of music and culture. Bright yellow and pink costumes, energetic choreography, and dazzling stage production created a colourful spectacle, with the Ghetto Kids and dozens of backup dancers keeping the crowd entertained from start to finish.

 

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The performance reunited Burna Boy and Shakira after the pair introduced Dai Dai, the official anthem of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, during the tournament’s opening ceremony in June. In the days leading up to the final, both stars had also built anticipation by sharing photos and videos from rehearsals, giving fans a glimpse of their preparations for the global event.

Rehearsal clips also featured the celebrated Ugandan dance troupe, Ghetto Kids, who played a major role in the halftime show. Shakira later revealed that her decision to include the young dancers was inspired by a viral video showing them performing with homemade instruments despite growing up in challenging conditions.

 

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She said:

“A lot of people asked me why I chose children from the slums to dance with me at the World Cup. Two weeks ago, someone uploaded a video online showing these kids dancing with no professional outfits or props, using wooden boards and strings as guitars, caps and wires as microphones, yet they were partying like they were at Coachella,”

The entertainment did not end there. The star-studded halftime show also featured separate performances from Canadian pop sensation Justin Bieber, American music icon Madonna and South Korean supergroup BTS, turning the World Cup final into a global celebration of football, music and culture.

With Burna Boy once again flying Nigeria’s flag on one of the world’s biggest stages, the Afrobeats star added another landmark performance to his growing list of international achievements, further highlighting the genre’s ever-expanding global influence.

 

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Hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament reminded football fans why the World Cup remains the sport’s biggest spectacle.

From unexpected giant-killings to emotional farewells and controversial refereeing decisions, the competition had no shortage of storylines. In the end, it was Spain that stood tallest, capping off an impressive campaign by defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final to lift the coveted trophy.

Spain’s road to glory was defined by defensive excellence. The champions allowed just a single goal throughout the tournament, producing one of the most disciplined defensive displays ever seen at a FIFA World Cup. Their organised backline frustrated every opponent they faced, laying the foundation for a deserved title-winning campaign.

While Argentina fell short in the final, Lionel Messi once again reminded the football world of his remarkable quality. Playing what is expected to be his final World Cup, the Argentine captain inspired his side with crucial goals, creative brilliance and leadership, ensuring his farewell appearance on football’s biggest stage will be remembered for years to come.

The tournament also sparked plenty of debate off the ball. One of the most talked-about moments came after Florian Balogun’s red card was overturned following a review, a decision that reignited conversations around the consistency of officiating and the continued use of VAR during major competitions.

Several global stars also lived up to the hype. Kylian Mbappé delivered another series of match-winning performances for France, while Erling Haaland enjoyed the most successful World Cup campaign of his career, spearheading Norway’s impressive run and further cementing his reputation as one of football’s deadliest strikers.

 

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Among the tournament’s biggest surprise packages was Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha. The experienced shot-stopper produced a string of outstanding performances, making crucial saves that helped his nation reach the Round of 16 for the first time. Even after Cape Verde’s exit, Vozinha emerged as one of the competition’s breakout performers, earning widespread admiration for his consistency and composure between the posts.

As the dust settles on another memorable World Cup, the 2026 edition will be remembered for its captivating football, unforgettable individual performances, and dramatic moments that are certain to remain part of football conversations for years to come.

 

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FIFA has announced a landmark addition to its list of World Cup honours, confirming that future champions will receive championship rings for the first time in the history of the tournament.

The new initiative will see members of the World Cup-winning team presented with specially designed rings alongside the iconic FIFA World Cup Trophy and winners’ medals, introducing a tradition long associated with major American sports.

According to FIFA, 30 exclusive championship rings will be produced for each victorious national team, recognising the players and key personnel who contribute to winning football’s biggest prize.

In addition to the champions’ rings, the world football governing body will also release 1,996 commemorative rings for supporters around the globe. The figure pays tribute to 1996, the year FIFA introduced the official FIFA World Cup champions’ badge, adding symbolic significance to the collectible.

The decision marks the first time in the competition’s 96-year history that World Cup winners will receive championship rings, aligning football with traditions established in leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL, where rings are regarded as lasting symbols of sporting excellence.

Beyond rewarding champions, the commemorative fan edition is expected to become a prized collector’s item, allowing supporters to own a unique piece of FIFA World Cup history.

FIFA is yet to unveil the final design of the rings or announce details regarding their pricing, production timeline and global availability.

🚨💍 OFFICIAL: FIFA to award the winners of the World Cup with championship rings.

It’s the first time in history, following some of the American sports.

30 rings will be made available to the world champions, with a further 1,996 rings going on sale to fans. pic.twitter.com/nPd01KhSG5

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 17, 2026

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FIFA has unveiled an impressive lineup of global music stars and entertainers set to perform throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with fans expected to witness one of the biggest entertainment spectacles in the tournament’s history.

The expanded World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, kicks off on June 11 in Mexico City before concluding with the final on July 19 at the New York/New Jersey Stadium.

In a first for the competition, FIFA will stage three separate opening ceremonies across the host nations. Mexico City will host the opening celebration on June 11, while Toronto and Los Angeles will each hold their own ceremonies on June 12, showcasing music and culture from around the world.

FIFA confirms first-ever World Cup final halftime show

One of the biggest innovations at the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the introduction of a halftime show during the final.

The historic performance, scheduled for July 19 at the New York/New Jersey Stadium, will be headlined by global superstars Madonna, Shakira and BTS.

The halftime spectacle will be curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin in collaboration with Global Citizen. Beyond entertainment, the show is expected to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative designed to raise $100 million to improve access to education and football opportunities for children worldwide.

Confirmed performers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

FIFA has confirmed the following artists and entertainers as part of the tournament’s entertainment program:

• Alejandro Fernández
• Belinda
• Danny Ocean
• J Balvin
• Lila Downs
• Los Ángeles Azules
• Maná
• Tyla
• Alanis Morissette
• Alessia Cara
• Elyanna
• Jessie Reyez
• Michael Bublé
• Nora Fatehi
• Sanjoy
• Vegedream
• William Prince
• Katy Perry
• Future
• Anitta
• LISA
• Rema
• Madonna
• Shakira
• BTS
• Justin Bieber
• Jennifer Hudson (National Anthem)
• Post Malone
• Coldplay
• PS22 Chorus
• Sesame Street characters
• Tom Cruise
• IShowSpeed
• Robbie Williams
• Nicole Scherzinger
• Laura Pausini

With world-renowned musicians, actors and entertainers set to take part across multiple ceremonies, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is shaping up to deliver an unforgettable blend of football and entertainment on a global stage.

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Argentina captain Lionel Messi has added another remarkable chapter to his illustrious career after breaking and extending multiple records at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.

At 39, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner arrived at the tournament as the oldest outfield player in Argentina’s squad but has continued to defy expectations, cementing his status as one of football’s greatest-ever players.

From becoming the first footballer to compete in six FIFA World Cups to extending several long-standing tournament records, Messi has once again demonstrated his enduring brilliance on the biggest stage.

First Player To Feature In Six FIFA World Cups

Messi made history by becoming the first player to appear in six editions of the FIFA World Cup. His remarkable journey spans Germany 2006, South Africa 2010, Brazil 2014, Russia 2018, Qatar 2022, and the 2026 tournament.

Most FIFA World Cup Appearances

The Argentine superstar has also strengthened his record as the player with the most appearances in World Cup history, surpassing the tally he established after leading Argentina to the title in Qatar four years ago.

Most Minutes Played In World Cup History

Every match at the 2026 World Cup has seen Messi increase his advantage as the player with the highest number of minutes played in the history of the competition, further underlining his longevity at the elite level.

Most World Cup Victories

Argentina’s progress in the tournament has also helped Messi extend his record for the highest number of wins by any player in FIFA World Cup history.

Most Matches As World Cup Captain

As Argentina’s captain, Messi has continued to lead his country from the front, adding to his all-time record for the most FIFA World Cup appearances as captain.

Oldest Argentine To Score At A World Cup

The Inter Miami forward also became the oldest Argentine footballer to score at a FIFA World Cup, adding another milestone to his extraordinary international career.

With Argentina still chasing another World Cup triumph, Messi continues to rewrite football history, proving that age has done little to diminish his influence on the world’s biggest stage.

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The battle for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has entered its decisive phase, with the quarter-final lineup almost complete following an action-packed Round of 16 filled with dramatic results, memorable performances, and unexpected twists.

With just eight nations left in the tournament, the fight for a place in the semi-finals promises even more high-stakes football as the remaining contenders edge closer to lifting the sport’s most coveted trophy.

The first confirmed quarter-final will see France take on Morocco on July 9, 2026, after both sides came through their respective knockout ties in impressive fashion.

France booked their place in the last eight with a narrow 1-0 victory over Paraguay. Kylian Mbappé proved decisive, converting the match-winning penalty to send the former world champions into another World Cup quarter-final.

48 nations dared to dream, but only 8 remain. The Quarter-finals are locked in. 🏆#FIFAWorldCup #Qualified @mcdonalds pic.twitter.com/7C3WGlps0Q

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 7, 2026

Morocco, meanwhile, maintained their outstanding run with a convincing 3-0 triumph over Canada. The Atlas Lions combined defensive discipline with clinical finishing to comfortably secure their place among the tournament’s final eight teams.

Their meeting now sets up one of the most intriguing fixtures of the quarterfinals, with France aiming to continue their title pursuit while Morocco look to extend another historic World Cup campaign.

Remaining quarter-final fixtures

• France vs Morocco
• Norway vs England
• Spain vs Belgium
• Argentina vs Switzerland

The 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals will be played between July 9 and July 11, 2026, with the four winners progressing to the semi-finals as the race for global football’s biggest prize reaches its climax.

The quarter-finals are set 🤝#FIFAWorldCup

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 7, 2026

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The defending champions looked destined for a shock exit after falling two goals behind, with Messi enduring a difficult first half that included a missed spot-kick.

However, Argentina mounted a remarkable comeback as Cristian Romero reduced the deficit before Messi found the equaliser. Enzo Fernández then completed the turnaround with a stoppage-time winner to seal a thrilling 3-2 victory.

Reflecting on the emotional scenes after the final whistle, the 39-year-old said the tears were not simply about reaching the quarter-finals but about overcoming the disappointment of letting his teammates down earlier in the match.

“I cried because I felt that I let my teammates down because of the penalty I missed and the way I took it. But thankfully, once again, God had something special for me in the end. I’m very happy.”

Messi also praised the determination shown by the Argentine squad, insisting they never believed their World Cup journey should end against Egypt despite the early setback.

“We didn’t want and didn’t deserve to go home. We could not let it end like that. This group really deserved to keep going. We never give up. Never.”

After enduring one of the most challenging moments of his World Cup career, Messi responded in typical fashion, producing a decisive display that helped keep Argentina’s title defence alive. His contribution proved crucial as the reigning champions completed one of the tournament’s most memorable comebacks.

Argentina will now shift their focus to the quarter-finals, where they are set to face Switzerland as they continue their quest to retain the FIFA World Cup trophy.

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Pressure mounted on the veteran Italian following Brazil’s surprise 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16, a result that ended the five-time champions’ hopes of lifting a record sixth World Cup trophy and triggered criticism of the team’s performances.

Despite the setback, Ancelotti has made it clear that the defeat will not alter his commitment to the national team, describing the tournament exit as the beginning of a fresh chapter rather than the end of his tenure.

“This defeat is the beginning of a new cycle. We are all deeply disappointed, but we have to look ahead and build for the future.”

🚨🇧🇷 Carlo Ancelotti confirms he will NOT leave Brazil job: “We must continue to work and improve, and find new ideas. I believe that 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐝, but the beginning of a new cycle”. pic.twitter.com/6mXLG4LMYd

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 5, 2026

The 67-year-old admitted the result was difficult to accept but maintained that Brazil showed enough quality to deserve more from the contest. He believes the experience should serve as a foundation for rebuilding rather than a reason to abandon the long-term project.

Ancelotti also hinted at changes within the squad, suggesting a gradual transition in which younger players will take on greater responsibility, particularly in midfield, as Brazil prepares for future international competitions.

His position appears secure following the Brazilian Football Confederation’s decision to extend his contract through to the 2030 FIFA World Cup. This move reflects the federation’s continued faith in his leadership despite the disappointing campaign.

With the World Cup now behind them, Ancelotti’s attention will turn to reshaping the Seleção as Brazil begin preparations for the next phase of their journey.

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Speaking during an interview with Algerian journalist Riadh Belaïche, the Franco-Malian tactician admitted that Nigeria faced an uphill battle when he was appointed, with the Super Eagles having managed only three points from their opening four qualifying matches.

Despite the difficult situation, Chelle said his side fought to keep their qualification hopes alive but ultimately paid the price for failing to capitalise in a crucial fixture against Zimbabwe.

“When I arrived, Nigeria had three points from 12. We fought hard to reach the playoffs, but those two dropped points against Zimbabwe hurt us a lot. It was in our hands to qualify for the World Cup but we didn’t,” Chelle said.

The coach acknowledged that the team gave everything in the closing stages of the campaign, but admitted that missed opportunities proved too costly in the end.

Nigeria’s hopes suffered a major blow after settling for a draw against Zimbabwe. This result left the three-time African champions with an impossible task in the remaining qualifiers despite an improved run of performances.

Chelle’s assessment suggests that the failure to qualify was not down to a lack of talent, but rather an inability to secure maximum points in matches that mattered most.

With the World Cup dream now over, the Super Eagles will shift their attention to future assignments under Chelle, who is expected to continue rebuilding the squad as Nigeria targets success in upcoming international competitions.

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The veteran forward silenced criticism in Houston with a clinical brace, delivering the kind of decisive display that once again underlined his reputation for stepping up on the biggest stage. The goals not only secured three points but also restored confidence after questions had been raised about his influence in the previous match.

Ronaldo later admitted the period leading into the game had been difficult, describing it as a “dark week” following claims from critics suggesting he “had already retired from football.”

Those doubts intensified after Portugal’s earlier 1-1 draw with DR Congo, where he struggled to make an impact, and some began to question whether his era at the top level was coming to an end.

Speaking to Sport TV after the match, he reflected on the pressure and his response:

“I know that whoever works hard, God helps him. It was a tough week, a dark one, it started as if I had retired from football. But I held on as I always hold on because I believe in work more than football. It was tough, I have to admit, but we came back.”

On the pitch, however, Ronaldo answered in the most familiar way possible—by scoring goals. His performance in Houston was widely praised as a return to top form, with his movement, finishing, and leadership all drawing attention throughout the game.

After the final whistle, he celebrated passionately, repeatedly pointing toward the cameras and shouting, “I’m back! I’m back!”—a moment that quickly spread across social media and reignited global discussion about his longevity.

He later carried that emotion onto Instagram, posting images of his celebration with the caption “estamos aqui,” meaning “WE ARE HERE!” a message that many fans interpreted as a direct response to his recent critics and a statement of intent for the rest of the tournament.

 

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One of the most notable adjustments involves a revised penalty shootout procedure. Instead of conducting two separate coin tosses, there will now be a single toss. The winning captain will choose either to take the first penalty or decide which end the shootout will be played at, while the opposing captain automatically receives the remaining option.

FIFA says the update is designed to simplify the process and reduce perceived imbalance in shootouts, pending final approval.

Additional changes target game management and time control. Stricter punishments will now be enforced for deliberate time-wasting, alongside countdown limits for restarts such as throw-ins and goal kicks.

The governing body is also expanding the use of VAR in key decision-making situations, aiming to reduce controversial calls in high-stakes knockout matches.

Another key amendment involves player conduct during matches. Players who attempt to hide tactical communication by covering their mouths while speaking to teammates or officials will now face tougher enforcement measures as part of efforts to improve transparency on the pitch.

In a move likely to influence squad strategy, yellow-card accumulations will now be wiped after the quarter-finals, reducing the risk of players missing the semi-finals due to minor disciplinary records.

The updated regulations are expected to come into force before the Round of 32 begins, ensuring that the remainder of the tournament is played under the revised framework as teams push toward the final.

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The Portugal captain became the first male player ever to score in six different FIFA World Cup tournaments after finding the net in Portugal’s clash against the Uzbekistan national football team. The strike, which came early in the sixth minute, marked another extraordinary milestone in a career already defined by record-breaking achievements.

At 41, Ronaldo continues to defy expectations about age and decline. While debates around his form and long-term role in the national team have intensified in recent years, moments like this serve as a reminder of his enduring ability to deliver on the biggest stage when it matters most.

Heading into the fixture, there had been growing scrutiny over his recent international scoring drought and his overall influence in open play. Analysts pointed to a stretch of games without a goal in major tournaments, raising questions about how much he could still contribute at the highest level. But once again, Ronaldo responded in the way he has built his legacy—by producing a decisive moment when the pressure is highest.

Cristiano Ronaldo: The first man to score at six #FIFAWorldCup tournaments pic.twitter.com/i6IxCcXl8o

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 23, 2026

His goal also extends a remarkable pattern of consistency that spans more than two decades of World Cup football, beginning with his first appearance at the tournament and continuing through six separate editions. It is a level of sustained performance very few players in the sport’s history have ever come close to matching.

While the conversation around Portugal’s tactical evolution under Roberto Martínez continues, Ronaldo’s latest milestone ensures he remains central to the story. Whatever the broader debate may be, his ability to turn moments into records is still very much intact.

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