BBC and ITV viewers were jubilant before a ball was even kicked in the World Cup final. The match between Spain and Argentina, which started six minutes late because the pre-match show ran behind schedule, looked very different from most high-profile soccer matches.
The show was an influence, but so was the introduction of the U.S. national anthem, performed by music icon Jennifer Hudson. However, the British public was perplexed that the co-host’s national anthem was played before a game that did not involve the American team.
Fans flocked to social media to voice their concerns, with @thspctclrnw writing: “Someone please explain to 5-year-old me why the American national anthem was sung during the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, when Mexico and Canada were also the hosts.”
Many viewers had similar questions, with @folklaurenx saying, “Honestly, I don’t understand why we need to sing the U.S. national anthem before this game. This isn’t about the U.S., it’s about Spain and Argentina. Who’s going to get wild in the U.S. stadium? If they’re doing it because they’re the host country, where are the Mexican and Canadian national anthems?????????”
@MissDumbledory added, “I love Jennifer Hudson, but why on earth is the US national anthem being sung at the World Cup final?! Last time I checked I’m pretty sure it was Spain vs. Argentina #WorldCupFinals.”
@ChallengeFaz made a similar complaint, writing: “The American national anthem being sung at a final we’re not in? What a circus. #WorldCupFinal.”
The controversial show also featured Robbie Williams singing and Tom Cruise gave an impassioned speech on the pitch just before kick-off.
Ahead of the game, Cruz said: “They started a journey. They crossed oceans, they crossed borders, they crossed cultures. And together they showed us why this game belongs in the world.”
“Football is a language spoken without words, a force that unites people, turns strangers into friends, and reminds us of what we all have in common.
“Let’s come together for the final chapter and celebrate the tournament that brought the world together. Let’s celebrate each other. This is football. This is unity. This is greatness.”
