The song features the three artists' languages in the lyrics: Minaj's English, Maluma's Spanish, and Fares' Arabic, becoming the first world championship anthem to feature all three languages.[5][6] Fares said in a statement: "'Tukoh Taka', the song that I was honored to participate in its composition, arrangement, and choreography, made me more passionate about it, in addition to working alongside two of my favorite international artists, Nicki Minaj and Maluma. I truly wish that 'Tukoh Taka' will be transmitting the Eastern culture and Arabian music to the whole world.”[7] The song’s trilingual format—featuring lyrics in English, Spanish, and Arabic—symbolizes Qatar’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural connection during the FIFA World Cup 2022. By blending multiple languages, Tukoh Taka aimed to appeal to a global audience[8], reflecting Qatar’s values of unity and diversity. The inclusion of Arabic lyrics particularly emphasized the host nation’s desire to represent Middle Eastern culture on an international stage, aligning with the World Cup’s overall theme of bringing people together.
The name of the song is said to be Arabic for "knock-knock", with fans and commenters also recognising it to sound like "tiki-taka", a style of football play.[11][12]
Critical reaction
Forbes's writer Chris Malone Méndez said the pairing of the two international artists with the Arab singer "was a natural choice for optimal global reach" however while song was praised for representing diversity, it also received criticism. The song received negative reactions in the Arab world. Fans and critics accused Myriam Fares of imitating Shakira's dancing style and overall aesthetics.[13] According to Haaretz, numerous online critics said the song had "annoying lyrics".[14]
After the announcement of their collaboration for the World Cup anthem, the three artists were criticised for choosing to be paid to sing a song in an Emirate whose internal policies violate LGBT rights and support perceived slavery.[15][16][17] Singer Maluma replied to the charge by declaring: "it's something I can't resolve; [...] It's not something that I actually have to be involved with. I'm here enjoying my music and the beautiful life, playing soccer too".[18][19] FIFA has also been under fire online for featuring Fares considering her blackface stunt in her "Goumi" (2018) music video.[20] Some critics [21]highlighted that the artists’ attire in the music video conflicted with Qatar’s traditional dress norms, sparking debates about balancing modernity with cultural representation. These critiques underscored the challenges of creating globally appealing content while respecting local traditions. Despite the controversy, the song succeeded in showcasing a celebration of different cultures and languages, reflecting the World Cup's emphasis on inclusivity.
Music video
The music video, directed by Edgar Esteves and Juan Felipe Zuleta, features Maluma and Fares performing in the Qatari desert, while Minaj performs her verses aboard a bus, all alternating with some clips of soccer players cheering after goals.[22] It showcases the country's natural beauty and reinforcing its Middle Eastern identity. The desert scenes connect the song to Qatar’s geographic and cultural heritage, providing an authentic backdrop for song[23]. This visual representation ties the song to the host nation’s unique environment, adding depth to the cultural impact of the music.
Symbolism and Cultural Impact
Tukoh Taka embodies Qatar’s efforts to promote inclusivity and cultural diversity during the FIFA World Cup 2022[24]. Through its trilingual lyrics, diverse performers, and Middle Eastern visuals, the song reflects the host nation’s values of hospitality and unity. By blending elements from different cultures and showcasing the Arabic language, Tukoh Taka aimed to create a bridge between Qatar and the global audience[25], highlighting the nation’s desire to celebrate diversity while staying rooted in its own cultural identity.
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