FIFA World Cup 2026: Shakira and Burna Boy start world cup party in Mexico as fans compare 2010’s Waka Waka
The Latin music sensation performed in Mexico ahead of the tournament’s opening game.
Latin music icon Shakira has shaken her world-famous hips in Mexico City overnight, performing at the opening match of the FIFA World Cup alongside Nigerian artist Burna Boy.
Ahead of Mexico’s 2-0 victory over South Africa, the pair had Azteca Stadium rocking as they unveiled a live rendition of their catchy tune Dai Dai — Italian for “let’s go”.
Sadly for Italians in the crowd, they couldn’t sing it with gusto as their team failed qualify.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.While Shakira’s stadium showing was far from boring — delivering her signature hair flicks and hip thrusts — fans felt they’d seen it all before.
The seasoned headline act performed Hips Don’t Lie at the 2006 world cup closing ceremony in Germany, Waka Waka in South Africa at both the closer and opener in 2010, and La La Land in 2014 before the final in Brazil.
Naturally, viewers couldn’t help but compare past with present.
“This is beautiful and all but I don’t mind having Waka Waka for the rest of the WC. None is touching that — Waka Waka and Waving Flag,” one fan said.
“Shakira and the World Cup are a legendary duo at this point. From Waka Waka to Dai Dai, she keeps delivering iconic FIFA moments,” another added.
“At this rate, Shakira is going to perform at the 2050 World Cup and still look exactly the same. Ageing like fine wine! 🍷” one commented.
It’s a tough gig matching the singer for energy, with some viewers claiming Burna Boy did not make it to rehearsals.
Donning double denim as the only performer not dressed in yellow and white, the Nigerian certainly stood out.
“The dance is awkward. Burna not rehearse with them? 😂😂😂😂,” one person joked.
Another suggested he “looked lost”.
Joining the party were fellow Latin acts J Blavin, Tyla, and Mana, with actor Salma Hayek appearing in an emerald Gucci dress as she offered an official welcome speech as FIFA ambassador.
Shakira’s connection to the world game stretches further than just her stage shows, sharing two children with ex-husband Gerard Pique who represented Spain as a defender across three world cups — lifting the trophy in 2010.
Hosted by three nations this year in Canada, the US, and of course, Mexico, each will hold their own opening ceremonies on Friday prior to their respective national side’s first games.
BMO Field in Toronto will see notable Canadians Alanis Morissette, Alessia Cara, and Michael Bublé take the stage ahead of Canada’s match-up against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
And at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium, big-name acts Katy Perry, Future, and LISA will perform before the US takes on Paraguay.
Originally published on PerthNow
