World Cup Final Halftime Show Packs Star‑Packed Intermission

Star‑Studded Lineup Shines in Lusail

Madonna, two Brazilian icons Ronaldinho and Ronaldo, and a host of other celebrities turned the halftime into a mini‑festival. The stars rode through the stadium tunnels in a flashy buggy, creating an immediate spectacle. Muppets made a brief appearance, followed by K‑pop giants BTS and pop star Justin Bieber. Shakira capped the segment with her World Cup song “Dai Dai,” keeping the energy high until the final whistle.

The intermission was unusually long, prompting many fans to label it an “XXL break” between the two halves. Historically, World Cup finals have kept halftime brief, often opting for a short ceremonial pause rather than an extended show. This edition broke from that tradition, turning the break into a major talking point.

📸 PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA – AFP or licensors

How Fans Reacted to the Extended Show

Opinions quickly flooded social media after the match, with the consensus leaning toward disappointment. Fans described the extra time as a distraction that pulled focus away from the game itself. The article’s author summed up the feeling by saying, “you’re not fans of this XXL break between the two halves of the World Cup final.” Such sentiment echoed across multiple platforms, highlighting a clash between the desire for entertainment and the expectation of a concise sporting experience.

The blend of high‑profile performers—ranging from football legends to global music icons—showcased FIFA’s push to blend sport with pop culture. While the star power was undeniable, critics argue that the length may have undervalued the drama of the actual final. This approach mirrors earlier efforts at the 2014 final, where Jennifer Lopez and Shakira performed during halftime, though that show lasted less than ten minutes.

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