FIFA’s decision to introduce a halftime show during the 2026 FIFA World Cup final has sparked mixed reactions among football fans around the world. While the announcement of stars Shakira, Justin Bieber, Madonna, and BTS generated excitement, many supporters questioned whether a concert-style performance belongs in football’s biggest event.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, concluded with the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey in the small hours of Monday. For the first time in the tournament’s history, FIFA held an entertainment show during halftime, similar to the Super Bowl tradition in the United States.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the halftime show was intended to make the World Cup final a larger global entertainment event and attract a wider audience. The performance featured internationally recognized artists, including Shakira, known for her iconic World Cup songs Waka Waka and La La La, former boy wonder Justin Bieber along with pop legend Madonna and South Korean music group BTS. FIFA said the event will celebrate football, music, and culture on one stage.

However, the announcement has divided fans and football experts. Many welcomed the idea, saying it would make the final more entertaining and help attract younger audiences. They said the presence of world-famous artists will increase the tournament’s global appeal and create an unforgettable experience for spectators.

Others, including seminal punk rock band The Cure frontman Robert Smith, strongly criticized the decision, arguing that football traditions should not be changed. Critics fear that extending the halftime break for a concert could affect players’ physical rhythm, preparation, and match intensity. Some fans also said the focus should remain on the sport rather than celebrity performances.

FIFA assured that the performance was carefully planned to avoid disrupting the match while maintaining high production standards. Security, stage setup, and broadcast arrangements were also coordinated to ensure a smooth event.

As of now, the halftime show remains one of the most talked-about aspects of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final apart from the boorish behavior of the Argentine squad.

India have made a late change to their squad for the third and final ODI against England after all-rounder Washington Sundar was ruled out with a hamstring injury.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Saturday that left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Harsh Dubey has been added to the squad for the series decider at Lord’s.

Washington Sundar ruled out with hamstring injury

Sundar sustained a right hamstring injury during the second ODI against England at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. The injury has forced him to miss Sunday’s decisive encounter.

According to the BCCI, the all-rounder will undergo scans and seek specialist medical opinion to determine the next course of treatment.

His absence comes as a setback for India ahead of the final ODI, with the three-match series level after England won the second match.

Harsh Dubey earns another opportunity

Harsh Dubey replaces Sundar in the Indian squad after making his ODI debut against Afghanistan in Dharamshala in June, where he returned figures of 3/47.

The young all-rounder was also part of the India A side that secured a 1-0 red-ball series victory in Sri Lanka. During the tour, he claimed four wickets and contributed scores of 30 and 29 with the bat.

Dubey joins India’s spin department alongside Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav for the Lord’s clash.

Zimbabwe assignment after England series

Following the conclusion of the England ODI series, Dubey will travel to Zimbabwe for India’s three-match series beginning on July 23 in Harare. The remaining matches are scheduled for July 25 and July 26 at the Harare Sports Club.

India’s squad for the third ODI

Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, Prince Yadav and Harsh Dubey.

England’s hopes of reaching the FIFA World Cup 2026 final ended in heartbreaking fashion after Argentina produced a late comeback to claim a 2-1 victory in the semi-final in Atlanta. While the Three Lions looked in control for much of the contest, their increasingly defensive approach after taking the lead proved costly.

Cagey first half offers few clear chances

The opening 45 minutes were dominated by physical battles and disciplined defending, leaving both teams with limited opportunities in front of goal. According to Opta, England registered an expected goals (xG) value of 0.05 in the first half, while Argentina managed just 0.03.

Despite the lack of attacking moments, England remained organised and frustrated the defending champions throughout the opening period.

Gordon breaks the deadlock

England finally found the breakthrough in the 55th minute when Anthony Gordon met a well-delivered cross from Morgan Rogers to put his side 1-0 ahead. The goal sparked celebrations among England supporters and appeared to put Thomas Tuchel’s side on course for a place in the World Cup final.

Argentina initially struggled to respond. With central defenders Lisandro Martinez and Cristian Romero both carrying yellow cards, the South American side had to remain cautious in defence, limiting their ability to challenge England’s attackers aggressively.

Defensive substitutions shift momentum

Instead of pushing for a second goal, England gradually retreated deeper into their own half.

In the 72nd minute, head coach Thomas Tuchel replaced goalscorer Anthony Gordon with defender Ezri Konsa, effectively switching to a back-five system. The tactical change reduced England’s attacking threat and allowed Argentina to dominate possession.

Tuchel made two more defensive-minded substitutions in the 82nd minute, bringing on Dan Burn and Nico O’Reilly for Reece James and Declan Rice. The changes further reinforced England’s defensive setup as Argentina continued to press for an equaliser.

Argentina capitalise late

Argentina’s persistence paid off in the 85th minute. Lionel Messi played a short corner to Enzo Fernandez, who found space outside the penalty area before firing a powerful shot beyond Jordan Pickford to make it 1-1.

With momentum firmly on their side, Argentina continued to attack during stoppage time. In the second minute of added time, Messi collected a loose ball on the right wing and delivered a precise cross into the six-yard box. Lautaro Martinez capitalised on defensive hesitation to score the winning goal and send Argentina into the final.

According to Opta, England had just 12% possession between Gordon’s opening goal in the 55th minute and Martinez’s decisive strike in stoppage time, underlining Argentina’s sustained control during the closing stages.

Harry Kane reflects on defeat

England captain Harry Kane admitted his side became overly defensive after taking the lead.

“Once we went 1-0 up, we seemed to just try and hold on, which at this level is not enough.”

His comments echoed the disappointment surrounding England’s inability to maintain their attacking intent after moving ahead.

Argentina set up final against Spain

With the victory, Argentina advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, where they will face Spain in the tournament’s title clash.

England, meanwhile, are left to reflect on another painful World Cup exit after surrendering a winning position in the closing minutes of a match that had once appeared firmly within their control.