Shakira, Madonna, Justin Bieber and BTS perform at colourful World Cup half-time show

What the report says

BBC Sport Football reported that the World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium featured a large-scale half-time show led by Madonna, BTS, Shakira and Justin Bieber, with additional appearances by Robbie Williams, Jennifer Hudson and other performers. The final itself saw Spain beat Argentina to win the World Cup for a second time, according to the article.

The half-time entertainment lasted 27 minutes and 22 seconds, which the BBC described as the longest interval show in World Cup history. Madonna performed her song “Music” and appeared alongside Brazilian football greats Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, while Bieber played guitar during his set. Shakira performed with Nigerian artist Burna Boy, after the pair had also appeared at the tournament’s opening ceremony in Mexico City the previous month. BTS’s appearance came as the group continued its return after a hiatus linked to members’ mandatory military service in South Korea.

The extended show had already drawn scrutiny because International Football Association Board rules provide for a maximum 15-minute half-time break for players. BBC commentator and former England forward Wayne Rooney was sharply critical of the spectacle, despite saying he liked many of the artists involved.

The article also noted a packed celebrity audience, including Kylie Jenner, Timothee Chalamet, Beyoncé and Jay-Z. Before kick-off, Jennifer Hudson sang the US national anthem, while Tom Cruise addressed the crowd. Other closing ceremony performers included Nicole Scherzinger, Laura Pausini, Post Malone and IShowSpeed.