Watch: Tyla stuns with South African anthem at FIFA World Cup opener

South African Grammy-winning star Tyla delivered a memorable rendition of Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika at the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico City, earning praise from fans around the world.

The historic performance took place on 11 June at the iconic Estadio Azteca ahead of the tournament opener between South Africa and Mexico. FIFA had previously confirmed that Tyla would perform the South African national anthem before kick-off.

Tyla shares the stage with global music stars

Tyla’s performance formed part of a star-studded opening ceremony that featured artists including Shakira, Burna Boy, J Balvin and Mexican music icon Alejandro Fernández.

While Alejandro Fernández performed the Mexican national anthem, Tyla represented South Africa with a vocal-led version of Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika alongside the Mzansi Youth Choir.

Fans praise Tyla’s vocals

Social media quickly filled with reactions from South African fans, many praising Tyla’s live vocals and her representation of South African culture on one of the world’s biggest sporting stages.

The performance came as South Africa returned to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since hosting the tournament in 2010, adding extra significance to the moment.

Some fans expressed frustration that Tyla’s appearance felt too brief, while others joked about television coverage not fully capturing her outfit during the broadcast.

Tyla set for second World Cup opening ceremony

Tyla’s World Cup journey is not over yet.

She is one of the few artists selected to perform at multiple opening ceremonies as part of FIFA’s three-country hosting format. FIFA is staging separate opening celebrations in Mexico, Canada and the United States.

The South African star is scheduled to perform again at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on 12 June, alongside artists including Future, LISA, Katy Perry and Anitta.

She is also featured on the official FIFA World Cup 2026 album through the song Game Time, a collaboration with Future.

A proud moment for South Africa

For many South Africans, seeing Tyla perform the national anthem before the opening match was another milestone in a career that continues to break barriers internationally.

The performance placed South African music and culture at the centre of the biggest sporting event in the world, while introducing millions of viewers to one of the country’s most successful global stars.

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