Noa Kirel Sparks Spanish Outrage with Argentina-Themed World Cup Music Video

Israeli singer Noa Kirel ignited a social media storm in Spain after releasing a new music video titled "Think You're Messi" to celebrate the 2026 World Cup. The video, produced in collaboration with Adidas and filmed at Bloomfield Stadium, features Kirel dressed as a goalkeeper in Argentina's light blue and white striped jersey, blocking shots from a player wearing Spain's national team kit. This creative choice provoked sharp criticism in Spain, where many viewed it as a political statement amid ongoing diplomatic tensions between Spain and Israel over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Spanish journalist Leila Hamed led the backlash on social media, mocking Kirel's partner, goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, as "the worst Bayern Munich goalkeeper of the century" and criticizing Adidas for sponsoring the video. Hamed also highlighted Spain's diplomatic stance supporting Palestine, suggesting the Spanish Football Federation should respond to the video. The controversy reflects broader political sensitivities, as Spain has taken a clear position in the Israeli-Palestinian dispute, and Kirel's portrayal was seen by some as provocative.

In an attempt to calm the uproar, Kirel posted a conciliatory message on social media, waving the flags of Spain, Argentina, and Israel with the caption "Viva España, viva Argentina y viva Israel!" She emphasized that the video was intended as a festive tribute to the World Cup rather than a political message. Despite this, criticism from pro-Palestinian activists and parts of the Spanish public has persisted.

The song "Think You're Messi," co-written by Kirel with Ron Biton, Itay Shimoni, and Yarden "Jordi" Peleg, blends football themes with Kirel's signature musical style, aiming to be a summer anthem for football fans worldwide. Meanwhile, Daniel Peretz continues his promising football career at Southampton, unaffected by the controversy. The couple remains one of Israel's most prominent pairs, handling the criticism with dignity and resolve.