Shakira and Burna Boy are set to perform the Official FIFA World Cup 2026 song, ‘Dai Dai,’ live for the first time tonight (June 11) at the World Cup Opening Ceremony in Mexico City.

The pair will headline the event just before the tournament’s opening match between Mexico and South Africa, bringing the competition’s official anthem to a global audience.

‘Dai Dai’ was created to celebrate resilience, hard work and global unity, blending different cultures through an upbeat sound and distinctive lyrics.

But ahead of the performance, many fans have been making the same comparison online, with several arguing that Shakira’s 2010 World Cup anthem ‘Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)’ remains the benchmark for football songs and is far superior to her latest release.

Fans compare ‘Dai Dai’ to ‘Waka Waka’

Reaction on social media has been mixed, with some listeners praising the new track while others complained that it cannot compete with the legacy of ‘Waka Waka.’

One person took to X and wrote: “Shakira and Burna Boy’s ‘Dai Dai’ proves that modern World Cup anthems are overproduced, soulless cash grabs not cultural moments. ‘Waka Waka’ worked because it felt organic. ‘Dai Dai’ feels like an algorithm made it. We need to stop pretending bigger names = better songs.”

Another person wrote: “Shakira done it again after Waka Waka!! But... nothing can beat Shakira’s Waka Wala - All time favrt!”

A third person penned: “The newest Shakira song for the World Cup is just about ok. It is no Waka Waka for sure."

A fourth said: “From 2010 to 2026, we’ve had some incredible World Cup anthems… but let’s be honest: Waka Waka remains untouchable.”

Shakira is set to perform the Official FIFA World Cup 2026 song, ‘Dai Dai’ tonight. Credit: Patricia J. Garcinuno / Getty

Why ‘Waka Waka’ still resonates with fans

"Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" was the official anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and was performed by Shakira alongside South African band Freshlyground.

The song became one of the most successful World Cup tracks ever released after bringing African musical culture to a worldwide audience through its adaptation of the traditional 1986 Cameroonian soldier chant "Zangaléwa."

Its mix of Afro-Colombian rhythms, themes of resilience and an instantly recognizable chorus helped it connect with people across different countries and languages. The song sold more than 15 million copies, attracted billions of views on YouTube and is still widely regarded as one of the defining sports anthems of the modern era.

Tournament faces criticism before kick-off

The build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has also been overshadowed by criticism surrounding the tournament.

Critics have accused the competition of being a target for "sportswashing," while concerns have been raised about immigration restrictions and travel bans in the United States.

Several international team personnel and match officials, including Somali referee Omar Artan, have reportedly been prevented from entering the country.

Civil rights group Amnesty International has also warned of a "human rights emergency" linked to border enforcement policies. Fans have additionally voiced frustration over rising travel expenses and FIFA's use of dynamic pricing, which has pushed ticket costs significantly higher.

There have also been safety concerns connected to cartel violence in co-host nation Mexico, along with fears about extreme summer heat conditions during the tournament.

For now, though, attention will be on Shakira and Burna Boy as they take to the stage in Mexico City, where fans will finally get to hear ‘Dai Dai’ performed live for the first time.

Featured image credit: Patricia J. Garcinuno / Getty

Shakira may be one of the most recognizable names in pop culture, but fans are only just realizing who her boyfriend is.

The Colombian megastar will be performing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony in Mexico City tonight (June 11), ahead of the clash between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa.

Whether she likes it or not, the artist will remain synonymous with soccer's biggest event, after her global hit 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)' became the official song of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, and following her long-term relationship with Spanish soccer star Gerard Piqué.

Many argue that it is the best soccer-related song ever made, but Shakira is back with another song for this year's World Cup, titled 'Dai Dai', featuring afrobeats star Burna Boy.

She is also slated to appear in the World Cup final half-time show on July 19, alongside Madonna and BTS.

But as the 49-year-old is now back in the limelight, the public is only just realizing who her boyfriend is.

Shakira has been in a high-profile relationship without many knowing. Credit: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Live Nation

Shakira's boyfriend and their 15-year age gap

A sense of intrigue was created when people realised that Shakira was reportedly dating actor Lucien Laviscount, who, at 34, is 15 years her junior.

The Brit is best known for portraying Alfie in the Netflix hit series Emily in Paris, which is one of the platform's most successful original series.

Shakira and Laviscount were first linked after the latter appeared in her music video for 'Punteria' in 2024, where they got up close and personal.

The singer would only confirm the relationship in early 2026 in a public appearance together, years after being seen eating dinner together in New York.

While they appeared on each other's social media accounts, Shakira only confirmed the whispers in February this year.

Despite appearing in public numerous times together, the 'Hips Don't Lie' singer cast doubt over their relationship in an interview with The Times in May.

"No romance for me for now. There's no space or time in my life for that. My plate is quite full. My kids are my priority, and my career," she claimed.

"Strangely enough, I'm in love with my career as I've never been in my life," Shakira stated, adding: "I'm enjoying my time alone as well."

Lucien Laviscount and Shakira made their relationship official in early 2026. Credit: Instagram/its_lucien

Shakira's past relationships

The Latin artist had a decade-long relationship with Antonio de la Rua, who is also her business manager.

He would sue the artist after their 2011 break-up for $250 million, after he left his career as a publicist to work with her.

But the Colombian artist's most well-known relationship was that with former Barcelona and Spain defender, Gerard Piqué, who was 10 years her junior.

The pair met while filming the music video for 'Waka Waka' and started dating in the months after it was released.

They never married, but the stars have two children together - sons Milan and Sasha.

Shakira and Piqué split up in 2022, following allegations of infidelity on Piqué's part, which prompted his ex-partner to release several diss tracks aimed at him.

She would later say that her responsibilities as a mom helped her through the struggles of a public breakup,

Delving into the details of the break-up to The Times, she admitted it was her "darkest moment," explaining: "I've been through so much pain, but it has made me perhaps in an unforeseen way a wiser person - or stronger, at least."

Despite rumors of Piqué being unfaithful and supposed diss tracks aimed at him, Shakira claimed there is no bad blood, telling the publication: "I will always have that gratitude in my heart for the father of my kids and [for] turning me into the mother that I am today."

Featured image credit: Patricia J. Garcinuno / Getty

BBC viewers have praised the broadcaster for its opening monologue during the start of the 2022 men's FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Today is an exciting day for soccer fans across the world, as the historic FIFA world cup begins. The 22nd men's FIFA World Cup will see 32 teams compete for the illustrious FIFA World Cup Trophy.

The tournament also marks the first time the tournament has been held in an Arab nation - and although that will always go down in history, the decision to have Qatar host the World Cup has not been without controversy.

Per BBC News, the nation has come under fire ever since it was announced that Qatar would be hosting the tournament back in 2010. The BBC states that the country has been criticized for multiple human rights concerns - including for its treatment of women, LGBTQ+ people, and migrant workers.

Per CNN, homosexuality in Qatar is illegal and punishable by up to three years in prison.

Additionally, The Guardian reported last year that 6,500 migrant workers had died in Qatar since the nation won the bid to host the soccer tournament.

As a result, the BBC felt it was only fitting to comment on the controversy in the opening monologue of its World Cup coverage.

As legendary host, pundit, and former England star Gary Lineker appeared on screen, he informed the viewers:

"Ever since FIFA chose Qatar back in 2010, the smallest country to have hosted football’s greatest competition has faced some big questions.

"From accusations of corruption in the bidding process to the treatment of migrant workers who built the stadiums where many lost their lives. Homosexuality is illegal here. Women’s rights and freedom of expression are in the spotlight.

"Also, the decision six years ago to switch the World Cup from summer to winter.

"Against that backdrop, there's a tournament to be played - one that will be watched and enjoyed around the world.

"'Stick to football', say FIFA.

"Well, we will... For a couple of minutes at least."

The monologue was subsequently praised by viewers on Twitter, with one person writing: "BBC have absolutely nailed that intro to the World Cup. They are laying out all the facts about Qatar and not shying away from it."

A second added: "This is how BBC opened coverage of World Cup 2022. Stark contrast to Fox Coverage in United States. Please take a minute to watch. This is how this World Cup should be contextualized."

Another wrote: "Strong opening statement from the BBC and Gary Lineker. Glad they're not shying away from the issues."

And a fourth added: "Good intro from @GaryLineker exactly what’s required. Never forget how we got here. We all love football. We all love the World Cup. But we cannot forget #FIFAWorldCup".

Featured image credit: Hasan Zaidi / Alamy

People are accusing Shakira of lip-syncing following her performance at the VMAs last night after she graced fans with a medley of her greatest hits.

Kicking off her nearly 10-minute celebratory performance, the 46-year-old superstar opened with 'She Wolf'. As the crowd roared in appreciation, she transitioned into 'Objection (Tango)'.

Shakira was keen to show off her musical talents as she picked up a guitar, and even more surprising, she danced with knives in each hand during 'Whenever, Wherever'.

The New Jersey crowd couldn't contain their excitement when she launched into 'Hips Don't Lie.' Shakira's iconic tongue wag, which went viral during her 2020 Super Bowl halftime show, made a triumphant return, with the audience singing along in unison.

To close her set, Shakira surprised everyone by crowd surfing during 'Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53'.

Despite her incredible performance, some fans on X (formerly known as Twitter) couldn't help but question if she was lip-syncing.

"Shakira if you’re gonna win the vanguard award you should at least, at the VERY least, not lipsync your performance," one person tweeted.

A second said: "I love Shakira, but the lip sync is a little obvious in this one," while a third added: "Shakira it’s giving lip sync. It’s like she’s off with the music and got the mic mad close to her lips."

Earlier in the evening, Shakira's two sons, Milan and Sasha, aged 10 and eight, respectively, whom she shares with ex Gerard Piqué, made a heartwarming appearance on the pink carpet, per the New York Post.

During her acceptance speech for the MTV Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, the 'Waka Waka' singer expressed her gratitude. She thanked her parents and her sons for their unwavering support, saying they made her feel that "Mama can do it all."

But Shakira's most heartfelt words were reserved for her devoted fans. "I especially want to share this award with my fans," she added emotionally. "Through thick and thin - thank you so much for being my army, and helping me fight all my battles."

According to a 2021 Rolling Stone report, she holds the title of the "best-selling female Latin artist ever." Her remarkable career has earned her three Grammy Awards, including one in 2018 for her album, "El Dorado," which secured the "Best Latin Pop Album" accolade.

Notably, her groundbreaking bilingual album, Laundry Service, made its debut in 2001, skyrocketing to No. 3 on the Billboard 200. The album also achieved the accolade of being certified triple platinum.

Whether she was lip-syncing or not, Shakira's performance was incredible!

Featured image credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/Getty