Wayne Rooney delivered a blunt assessment of the World Cup final halftime show, calling the star-studded performance "crap" during a live broadcast.
The first-ever World Cup final halftime spectacle featured Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber, BTS, and Brazilian football legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. The 13-minute production took place at MetLife Stadium following a goalless opening period between Spain and Argentina.
Rooney told the presenter he was unimpressed despite liking several of the featured artists. He said the show felt flat and left him eager for the football to resume.
Fellow pundits offered milder reactions. Micah Richards cited Shakira and Burna Boy as a highlight, while Joe Hart pointed to Ronaldinho and Ronaldo arriving with Madonna.
Madonna opened the show with her 2000 hit "Music," arriving on a dune buggy after a pre-recorded roller rink sequence alongside Brazilian football icons. Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel then led an orchestra through "Seven Nation Army" with Muppets appearing on field.
BTS performed "Dynamite" in red and black attire. Justin Bieber followed with a slower tempo, introduced by actors in character from a television series, before Shakira and Burna Boy performed their tournament anthem "Dai Dai."
The performance closed with a chorus of elementary school students from Staten Island. Earlier ceremonies included Jennifer Hudson, Robbie Williams, Post Malone, and an earnest speech ahead of the final.
