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Mon, Jul 20, 2026

Rating every WC halftime show performer as Madonna...

Madonna, the Queen of Pop, took to the stage for the highly-anticipated halftime show at the 2012 World Cup in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and it's only fitting that we rate her performance alongside some of the biggest names in music. The halftime show, which also featured Shakira and her son, brought a high level of energy and excitement to the sold-out crowd at the Estádio do Maracanã.

Madonna's setlist included a medley of her greatest hits, including 'Vogue', 'Music', and 'Like a Prayer', as well as a surprise performance of 'La Isla Bonita', a nod to her Latin American roots. The singer's high-octane performance was accompanied by a troupe of dancers and a visually striking set design, complete with a giant mirror ball and a sea of flames. Throughout the performance, Madonna showcased her signature blend of sass, style, and showmanship, leaving the crowd in awe.

While opinions may vary, our rating system gives Madonna a solid 8 out of 10 for her halftime show performance. Her ability to command the stage and deliver a thrilling setlist earned her high marks, but some critics felt that the performance was slightly marred by overly complex choreography and a few technical hiccups. Regardless, Madonna's presence on the halftime show stage was undeniably a highlight of the 2012 World Cup, and her performance will be remembered for years to come.

As we continue to rate the halftime show performers, it's clear that Madonna set the bar high for future performances. With her unparalleled stage presence and dedication to delivering a high-quality show, it's no wonder she's been a staple of major events for decades. The question on everyone's mind now is: who will be able to top Madonna's performance at the World Cup?