Not everyone is excited about Shakira’s concert.
The legendary singer is set to perform the halftime show at the 2024 Copa America final at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday night.
Shakira’s native Colombia will face Argentina, the reigning Copa America and World Cup champions.
But Colombia coach Nestor Lourenzo criticised CONMEBOL’s decision to extend the half-time break from the usual 15 minutes to 25 minutes to allow for the concert.
“I hope you enjoy it. Shakira is amazing,” Lorenzo said on Saturday. “In the final, if the rules change for both teams, if both teams have bad pitches, if the weather is the same, you don’t know if it’s bad or in favor of one side.”
“I don’t understand it. I wish it was the same as other teams. I went on in the 16th minute and was punished, but now I can go on in 20 because of Shaw. Sometimes players get cold feet, but it’s a two-way thing. Today I saw that this is the reality, and that’s it.”
Colombia advanced to the final after beating Uruguay 1-0 in the semifinal on Wednesday at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Meanwhile, Argentina advanced to the final after beating Canada 2-0 in the semifinal at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Tuesday.
Messi, who scored Argentina’s second goal in the semi-final, may be playing in his final major tournament for Argentina.
“I know this is the last game,” Messi said after the semi-final victory. “I’m enjoying it to the fullest.”
Colombia’s James Rodriguez was one of the best players throughout the tournament, scoring one goal and providing six assists in five games.
“He did great in the Copa America and we’re lucky to have him in good form and leading the team,” Lorenzo said. “And the team has supported him and brought him to this game, where we want to be. He’s one of the best players. I don’t know if he’s the best, but he’s one. I expect him to perform well tomorrow.”
