The inaugural halftime show of the World Cup final featured a star-studded lineup, including BTS, Justin Bieber, Madonna, and Shakira, all taking the spotlight.
In an effort to emulate the grandeur of a Super Bowl performance, FIFA presented an ambitious blend of international superstars, intricate staging, and beloved hits, though the impact of each act varied.
From amazing vocals to unforgettable moments, ESPN evaluates every performance from this landmark event.
Performance Ratings
Madonna and Special Guests
To kick things off, the Queen of Pop arrived via a dune buggy, driven by Brazilian football icons Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. Rating: 10/10 – no notes.
We do need to mention the music, though.
Madonna chose her classic 2000 dance-pop hit ‘Music,’ paired with the iconic ‘Disco Inferno’ in the background. She affectionately referred to it as ‘Music Inferno.’ No complaints here.
As they entered the pitch, Ronaldo was all smiles with ‘Seven Nation Army’ by the White Stripes resonating. The Venezuelan maestro Gustavo Dudamel conducted, while Animal from The Muppets played the drums.
A surreal experience, but one we’d gladly relive.
Rating: 9/10
BTS
Following the unforgettable Muppet performance, South Korean pop group BTS electrified the atmosphere with their hit ‘Dynamite.’
Their choreography was impeccable, incorporating air kicks that were far more menacing than Argentina’s first-half performance.
They arguably deserved more time on stage, as they were clearly the standout act on paper.
Rating: 8/10
Justin Bieber
Next up, Ted Lasso and Coach Beard introduced Justin Bieber as a substitute.
What a repertoire! He could have selected from hits like ‘Where Are U Now,’ ‘Sorry,’ ‘Stay,’ or even the classic ‘Baby.’ A heartfelt ballad like ‘Love Yourself’ would have been welcome.
Instead, we got ‘Everything Hallelujah,’ one of his newer tracks. Not our favorite. He stitched in ‘World Cup Hallelujah’ at the end, but we felt he could have delivered more given his proven talent.
Rating: 6/10
Shakira and Burna Boy
With no transition, Shakira replaced Bieber on the pitch.
The iconic performer delivered a powerful rendition of the official 2026 song ‘Dai Dai’ alongside Burna Boy, a track that has grown on many throughout the tournament.
Points were deducted for her choice to perform barefoot, but she remains a beloved staple at any major football event.
Rating: 7/10
PS22 Chorus and Coldplay
As Miss Piggy and Kermit gazed into each other’s eyes, Coldplay played what appeared to be a new song titled ‘Believe in Love,’ supported by the talented PS22 Chorus, made up of elementary school students from Staten Island.
Chris Martin, who curated the halftime experience, performed alongside all the other acts as the message “believe in love” surrounded the stadium, marking a memorable conclusion to over 11 minutes of incredible performances.
Rating: 7/10