Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, brought star power to the United States over the weekend when he graced a Major League Soccer clash between the New York Red Bulls and Columbus Crew as the guest of honour.
The multi-award-winning singer, who continues to make waves on the global stage, was invited to carry out the ceremonial coin toss before kick-off. Videos posted on his Instagram page showed Asake standing alongside the match officials as he flipped the coin to determine which team would start play. He accompanied the post with the caption: “Asake music gives you wings.”
To the delight of fans, one of his hit singles blasted through the stadium speakers as the coin toss ceremony took place. The footage also captured Asake shaking hands with both team captains and sharing photo moments with referees before the game, which ended in a goalless draw.
Another clip from the event showed the singer juggling a ball with ease at pitch-side while Cameroon international Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting watched on. The pair exchanged greetings shortly afterward and were seen sharing a light conversation.
Asake’s journey to international acclaim began in 2020 with his breakout single “Lady.” His career skyrocketed after signing with Olamide’s YBNL record label in February 2022. Since then, he has released three successful studio albums — Mr Money With The Vibes (2022), Work of Art (2023), and Lungu Boy (2024) — projects that cemented his place among Africa’s most influential artists. In 2025, his global rise was further recognized with a Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance.
His appearance at the MLS fixture highlights how Afrobeats continues to expand its influence beyond Africa, blending music, sport, and culture on one of football’s biggest stages in the United States.