2 min readFor the first time in FIFA World Cup history, the final match was split up not only with a halftime break for the players—but with a Super Bowl-level halftime show for all who tuned in. And, for the historic occasion, the tournament tapped a remarkably star-studded collection of headlining acts, including the one and only Madonna.
The “Like a Prayer” artist took the stage during the Spain vs. Argentina showdown just weeks after her 15th studio album, Confessions on a Dance Floor: Part II, was released. Bringing her infectious pop magic and signature stage presence to East Rutherford’s Metlife Stadium (or New York New Jersey Stadium, as it was temporarily renamed to for the 2026 World Cup), she treated the crowd to a bold performance (and a bold on-stage look).
Kicking off the set, she emerged on the field in a classic pink-and-purple Madonna fit, with little extra sporty details just for the day’s theme. She wore a satin track jacket and matching bedazzled athletic shorts with a plunging silver top and pink waist-trainer, creating a four-piece silhouette we’ve seen her in before. For accessories, she went with blue lace-up over-the-knee boots, little magenta gloves, and a crystal-embellished whistle, which hung from her neck ready to make a referee’s call.
For a fun surprise, Madonna brought out Brazilian soccer legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho to join her.
Curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, the halftime show saw Madonna alongside fellow headliners Justin Bieber, Shakira, and BTS. It was created to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative focused on expanding access to education and soccer opportunities for children everywhere, and served as the first of its kind in the world of soccer.