Colombian singer Shakira and Nigerian music star Burna Boy opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a performance that quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the tournament’s launch ceremony.
The pair took the stage during the opening event on Thursday, June 11, performing “Dai Dai”, the tournament’s official song before a packed crowd.
The performance began with Shakira appearing after an earlier set by J Balvin. She launched into the track while delivering her signature choreography and engaging the audience inside the stadium.
World Cup stage lights up
As the performance progressed, Burna Boy joined her on stage and the crowd responded with loud cheers.
Both artists performed on top of a large turquoise-and-yellow flag spread across the field and carrying the message: “We are ready.”
According to organisers, “Dai Dai” serves as the official song for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and also supports the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative aimed at improving access to education globally.
During the closing moments of the performance, the two artists stood together at centre stage.
They led spectators through the final refrain of the song.
Reactions trail global performance
Clips from the performance quickly circulated online, attracting praise and debate among fans.
Some viewers applauded the energy and international collaboration, while others focused on stage chemistry and choreography.
For many Nigerian fans, Burna Boy’s appearance at one of football’s biggest global events was seen as another major moment for Afrobeats on the world stage.
The opening performance has continued to generate discussion as the tournament begins.
Watch the video below…
Shakira & Burna Boy – Dai Dai🎶🎤
Otwarcie World Cup 2026⚽️ pic.twitter.com/gVti3n0qNB
— Andrzej (@AndrzejZmiasta) June 12, 2026
