A successful World Cup song must work beyond its original market. That means crossing languages, genres and football cultures without losing its identity. Shakira brings established tournament experience, while Burna Boy adds an Afrobeats presence with strong international reach.
The combination gives “Dai Dai” a clear commercial signal: familiar global pop appeal joined to a sound rooted outside the traditional European and North American mainstream. Its biggest test will be whether the chorus feels natural in stadiums, fan zones and broadcasts rather than only on streaming platforms.
The report also places J Balvin, Wyclef Jean and Nora Fatehi in the wider conversation around World Cup music. Their different backgrounds underline why the anthem debate has no single answer.
A song linked closely to the host nations can create a stronger sense of place. A more international collaboration, meanwhile, may travel further across the tournament’s audience. The strongest entries often try to do both: carry a local flavour while remaining accessible to supporters who do not share the language or musical traditions behind it.
World Cup anthems are judged long after the opening ceremony. The decisive measure is recognition: can supporters identify the song immediately, and does it return whenever tournament memories are revisited?
That gives “Dai Dai” a demanding brief. The pairing of Shakira and Burna Boy provides instant visibility, but visibility alone cannot guarantee a lasting football soundtrack. The melody, refrain and emotional connection will determine its place in the tournament’s culture.
As 2026 approaches, the next storyline will be whether “Dai Dai” moves from an official announcement to a genuine supporters’ anthem.