Shakira’s mixed – Shakira returned to the FIFA World Cup stage in Mexico City with the anthem “Dai Dai” alongside Burna Boy, triggering sharp debate among Australian fans. On the pitch, Mexico opened the 2026 tournament with a 2-0 win over South Africa at Estadio Azteca, in a m
The Estadio Azteca went from music to mayhem fast—after Shakira headlined the opening ceremony in Mexico City and performed “Dai Dai” with Nigerian artist Burna Boy, Mexico turned celebrations into control with a 2-0 victory over South Africa.
But for many football fans watching from Australia, the biggest talking point wasn’t the result—it was the soundtracking. Social media filled quickly with divided reactions to Shakira’s return to the World Cup stage, and the ceremony around her.
Shakira, 49, has taken a major place in World Cup lore before: FIFA brought her back after her 2010 World Cup anthem “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” became one of the most successful songs in tournament history. This time, though, the performances didn’t land the same way with every viewer.
“Nothing against her. She is great … but there are other great artists in the world,” one fan wrote, capturing the tone of several posts that praised the artist while still questioning the choice.
Others were far harsher. “The worst opening of a world cup,” one person declared. Another added: “This song is not good and I’m tired of pretending that it’s good, honestly it’s just mid, not worthy of my ears.”
Some criticism turned personal. “She’s old,” one user posted. Another asked: “When will Shakira retire? …it’s enough.” A separate comment even questioned her appearance—“Is Shakira wearing a mask or what?”—as debate spread beyond music into the presentation.
Supporters did speak up too. “Queen Shakira,” one fan wrote. “Let’s Go,” another posted. “Queen of the FIFA World Cup,” a third added.
As the ceremony moved through performances and pageantry, criticism also focused on the production itself. One viewer summed up the mood online: “Love Shakira. But the entire production for this World Cup opening is one of the worst of all time.” Another compared it with previous tournaments. writing: “Epic?. History repeats like 16 years ago but without soul.”.
On the ground. the 2026 opening ceremony unfolded in sections at the renovated Azteca Stadium— the first stadium to host three men’s World Cups. Dancers wearing Indigenous dress opened the show. Mexican actress Salma Hayek introduced the second part of the ceremony. with the World Cup trophy presented by FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
A parade followed featuring all 48 competing nations, including first-time qualifiers Jordan, Uzbekistan, Curaçao and Cape Verde. Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli also performed before football finally took centre stage.
When the tournament proper began, Mexico ended any suspense in a fiery match against South Africa at Estadio Azteca. Mexico, captained by Raul Jimenez in the opener, won 2-0 and the game was marked by three red cards.
The 2026 tournament is the first World Cup to feature 48 teams and is co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada—making the opening night feel bigger than ever, even as Shakira’s return split the mood almost immediately.
Shakira Burna Boy 2026 FIFA World Cup Mexico vs South Africa Estadio Azteca Gianni Infantino Salma Hayek Andrea Bocelli Dai Dai Waka Waka Aussie fans reactions