In the very typical American style, the expression “never seen before” is repeated ahead of this Sunday’s World Cup final in New Jersey.
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But this time there is some truth to it. On the MetLife turf in East Rutherford, there will be a never-before-seen clash between Lionel Messi and his protégé Lamine Yamal, whom he named in a bathtub when he was a budding star of the Blaugrana and the other a baby just a few months old.
Also, in the first halftime show held at a World Cup final, in the manner of the Super Bowl, there will be a duel of queens on the stage set up on the grass.
Madonna, who is like the eternal female portrait of Dorian Gray, and Shakira, who has become the undisputed musical face of the tournament with her song Dai dai , appear as the main attractions of a lineup that brings together a great group of stars.
“I believe the World Cup brings out the best in humanity. That’s why I’m excited about the halftime show, because in 11 minutes, it celebrates the best that the World Cup represents. It’s a celebration of humanity. It will be the largest gathering of artists for a cause since Live Aid,” explained Hugh Evans, co-founder and CEO of Global Citizen, the organization aimed at combating extreme poverty.
Among others will be Justin Bieber, while Post Malone will be the headliner of the closing
Alongside the two pop queens, the artist lineup includes Justin Bieber, Burna Boy, and BTS as headliners. But there will be contributions from Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel, the PS22 choir alongside Coldplay, Ghetto Kids, Emmanuel Kelly, and the characters from Sesame Street , including Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy.
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This show aims to raise 100 million dollars to expand access to quality education and football for children. Various governments, including Canada and Portugal, have already made contributions, and Evans, taking advantage of Spain being one of the finalists, encouraged President Pedro Sánchez to do the same.
The call for this show, which estimates a donation of one dollar for every ticket sold, has sparked controversy over the possible extra duration of the halftime.
“We have done what is in our hands to ensure that the 11 minutes pass according to the scheduled time,” Evans said. “When you bring together the best artists in the world in just 11 minutes, you have to make sure every second is perfect, every camera angle, the stage, every detail of sound, lighting, wardrobe. It is one of the biggest productions that can be made. It’s huge and involves immense work,” he added.
He argued that halftime breaks are lasting between 17 and 19 minutes, so the show “I don’t think will distort football.” This Friday FIFA guaranteed that the performances, plus the time to set up, dismantle, and water, will not take more than 17 minutes.
This show will have a preamble before the ball starts rolling. Jennifer Hudson will perform the United States national anthem, while Post Malone will be the headliner of the pre-closing ceremony. Also featured are Tom Cruise with a special appearance, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, and Robbie Williams.
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That said, remember that football will also be played.
