The biggest match in world football was preceded by a dazzling spectacle as the 2026 FIFA World Cup final transformed New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium into a global stage for sport and entertainment. Before Argentina and Spain took to the field, football legends, Hollywood stars and world-renowned musicians came together for a glittering pre-match ceremony.

Colombian pop superstar Shakira opened the show with a high-energy performance, setting the tone for the grand finale. She was followed by British singer Robbie Williams, who performed alongside American singer Nicole Scherzinger and Italian artist Laura Pausini. The trio thrilled the crowd with FIFA’s official anthem.

Earlier, Grammy-winning singer Jennifer Hudson performed the United States national anthem, with the entire stadium rising to honor the host nation.

One of the ceremony’s most memorable moments came when the FIFA World Cup Trophy was brought onto the pitch by Spain’s 2010 World Cup-winning captain Andrés Iniesta and Argentina’s 1978 World Cup-winning legend Mario Kempes. They were joined by Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz.

The trophy arrived in a specially designed Louis Vuitton trophy case. After it was placed on the stage, Hollywood star Tom Cruise addressed the crowd, describing football as a symbol of unity and humanity. However, his extended speech drew mixed reactions on social media, with some fans feeling the pre-match ceremony had become overly long.

Among the distinguished guests was U.S. President Donald Trump, who watched the final from a heavily secured VIP box protected by bulletproof glass.

Following the ceremony, both teams entered the field to a rousing reception. Spain wore their traditional red kit, while Argentina appeared in their iconic sky-blue and white striped jerseys, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the stadium.

Spain’s national anthem, Marcha Real, was played first, followed by Argentina’s Himno Nacional Argentino, sung passionately by thousands of Argentine supporters. Players from both teams shared emotional moments during the anthems.

With all formalities complete, the much-anticipated FIFA World Cup final finally got underway, as reigning European champions Spain faced defending world champions Argentina in a showdown between two of football’s greatest powers.