Tems has done it again — and this time, she’s made history on one of football’s biggest global stages.
On Sunday night, the Nigerian-born Grammy winner, Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, became the first African artiste ever to perform during the halftime show at the FIFA Club World Cup Final.
And it wasn’t just any performance — it was a show-stopping moment that lit up the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA, in front of a roaring crowd of over 81,000 fans.
An African Voice in a Global Spotlight
Tems shared the iconic stage with international superstars Doja Cat and J Balvin, delivering a vibrant 15-minute set that kept the stadium on its feet. The energy soared even higher when surprise guest stars Coldplay and singer-activist Emmanuel Kelly joined the performance, blending Afrobeats with pop, activism, and global unity.
The show — co-produced by FIFA and Global Citizen — wasn’t just about entertainment; it was a celebration of diversity, culture, and the power of music to bring the world together. And Tems stood tall, not just as a Nigerian, but as a symbol of Africa’s rise on the world stage.
Eyes of the World Watching
The electrifying performance unfolded during the final match of FIFA’s newly expanded 32-team Club World Cup, drawing global attention both on the pitch and in the spotlight. Even former U.S. President Donald Trump and Melania Trump were in the stadium, adding to the list of global dignitaries who witnessed the history being made.
From her days writing songs in Lagos to winning Grammys and now performing at one of the most watched football events in the world, Tems continues to fly the flag high for Nigeria — and for every young African dreaming big.
A Win for Culture, A Win for Africa
This is more than just a halftime show — it’s a cultural moment. It’s proof that African voices are not only being heard but are taking center stage globally.
Tems has once again shown us that talent knows no borders — and that dreams born in Africa can echo across the world.
History was made in New Jersey — and her name is Tems.
