Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Rema has arrived in Los Angeles ahead of his highly anticipated performance at the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup 2026, set for June 12 at SoFi Stadium in California. The 25-year-old artist is expected to debut his new track “Goals” live during the ceremony, just before the opening match between the United States and Paraguay.
Images circulating on social media show the singer in a relaxed mood shortly after landing, seated in an airport lounge with snacks, before transitioning into work mode inside a recording studio. There, he is seen adjusting sound levels and rehearsing with a microphone and mixing equipment, an indication of the meticulous preparation behind what is shaping up to be a defining moment in his career.
The performance, which will also feature global stars LISA and Anitta, is already generating widespread anticipation among fans and industry observers. Music insiders describe the collaboration as a strategic fusion of African, Asian, and Latin pop influences, reflecting the global nature of the World Cup audience.
Rema’s rise to international prominence has been swift but steady. Since the release of his 2022 breakout hit “Calm Down,” which later gained further traction through a remix with Selena Gomez, the Nigerian artist has expanded his global reach. Subsequent collaborations, including work with Canadian rapper Drake, have cemented his position as one of Afrobeats’ leading exports.
“This moment goes beyond music, it’s cultural representation on a global stage,” a Lagos-based music analyst said. “Rema performing at the World Cup opening ceremony signals how far Afrobeats has traveled.”
Back home in Nigeria and across the African diaspora, excitement continues to build. Fans have taken to social media to express pride, with many framing the performance as a milestone not just for Rema, but for African music as a whole. Some posts humorously suggest his “star power” could rival the spectacle of the tournament itself.
The 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to draw billions of viewers worldwide. For Rema, the opening ceremony offers a rare opportunity to showcase Afrobeats on one of the largest global stages in sports and entertainment.
As final rehearsals continue in Los Angeles, attention now turns to June 12, when the Nigerian star steps into the spotlight, an appearance that could further redefine the global perception of African music.