David Ochayi
(Dai Dai featuring Burna Boy. Source: Punch News)
Global superstar Shakira and Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy are set to ignite the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony, delivering the tournament’s electrifying anthem at Mexico City’s legendary Estadio Azteca on June 11.
The powerhouse duo will perform the high-energy track *Dai Dai*—an Italian rallying cry meaning “let’s go”—before host nation Mexico faces South Africa in the tournament’s first match. FIFA revealed the collaboration embodies football’s unifying spirit, blending the artists’ boundary-pushing sounds into a cross-continental celebration.
Joining the lineup are Colombian reggaeton trailblazer J Balvin and Grammy-winning South African artist Tyla, promising a dynamic pre-match spectacle.
Meanwhile, opening festivities will unfold across all three host countries with A-list performances. Canadian icons Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette will grace Toronto’s BMO Field before Canada meets Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 12, while Katy Perry and hip-hop heavyweight Future will light up Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium prior to the USA-Paraguay clash.
This marks Shakira’s triumphant return to the World Cup stage after her record-breaking anthems *Waka Waka* and *La La La*. The pop legend will also co-star in a groundbreaking halftime show during the July 19 final alongside Madonna and global K-pop phenomenon BTS—marking the first-ever World Cup entertainment spectacle of its kind.
