As football supporters countdown to Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, many will be turning to music to match the excitement before kick-off.
The meeting brings together the defending world champions and one of Europe’s most successful football nations. Argentina are chasing consecutive World Cup titles, while Spain are aiming to lift the trophy with a new generation of talent led by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
Over the years, football and music have become inseparable. Official tournament anthems, stadium classics and national favourites have all helped define some of the sport’s biggest moments. Ahead of the final, here are 10 songs that capture the emotion, celebration and global appeal of the FIFA World Cup.
Leading the list is “Dai Dai”, the official song of the 2026 World Cup by Colombian singer Shakira and Nigerian artist Burna Boy. Combining Latin rhythms with Afrobeats, the multilingual track celebrates unity, passion and the worldwide appeal of football.
Another official release for the 2026 tournament is “DNA (More Than A Game)”, a collaboration featuring Andrea Bocelli, David Guetta, EJAE and Megan Thee Stallion. Blending opera, electronic dance music, pop and rap, the song reflects the idea that football is far more than just a sport for millions of supporters.
No World Cup playlist would be complete without “La Copa de la Vida (The Cup of Life)” by Ricky Martin. Released for the 1998 tournament in France, it remains one of the most recognisable football anthems ever recorded and continues to energise fans nearly three decades later.
Spanish supporters have also embraced modern chart hits as part of their matchday celebrations. Rosalía’s “Despechá” has become a popular victory soundtrack following Spain’s recent successes, while veteran singer Raphael’s “Mi Gran Noche”, first released in the 1960s, still echoes through celebrations with its upbeat and timeless style.
Another favourite among Spanish fans is “La Roja Baila”, performed by Sergio Ramos alongside Niña Pastori and producer RedOne. Created for Spain’s UEFA Euro 2016 campaign, the song remains closely associated with the national team.
Argentina’s football culture has its own distinctive soundtrack. “La Cumbia de los Trapos” by Yerba Brava became especially popular during the country’s victorious World Cup campaign in Qatar and remains a terrace favourite.
“Matador” by Los Fabulosos Cadillacs is another song frequently heard after Argentine goals. While widely recognised as a football celebration anthem, the track also carries historical significance through its references to Argentina’s yonder military rule.
Representing a newer generation of Argentine music, “Dumbai” by Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso blends trap, electronic and Latin influences. The song has become increasingly popular among younger supporters and often features in football celebrations.
Rounding off the selection is “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)”, Shakira’s official anthem for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. More than 15 years after its release, it remains one of the most enduring football songs ever produced and continues to unite supporters across generations whenever the World Cup returns.
Whether fans are backing Argentina to retain the trophy or hoping Spain claims football’s biggest prize, these songs provide a fitting soundtrack for one of the sport’s most anticipated occasions. As the final whistle approaches, the music surrounding the tournament is once again proving that football is about far more than the action on the pitch.
