We’re not going to lie, we were a bit worried when Madonna was announced as the performer for this year’s Super Bowl halftime show. But Madge came through in the end with her gladiator-meets-cheerleader-meets-world-peace performance.

We know we’re not supposed to bring up a woman’s age blah blah blah, but let’s face it, Madonna is 53. And at 53, it’s pretty damn impressive that she can still dance in front of millions at the Super Bowl, holding her own with LMFAO. We’re not saying her dance moves weren’t at times precarious. We’re not saying we approved of her use of cheerleaders (referencing high school? Really?). Nor are we denying how appreciative we were that Madonna wore an age appropriate non-Miley Cyrus outfit. But still… we have to give it to her. Madonna was impressive.

And really, how could she have failed with the vintage songs she performed like “Vogue”, “Music” and “Like a Prayer”? Plus, the music legend had plenty of guest singers throughout her performance, with Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. joining her for her new single “Give Me All Your Luvin’”. Minaj wowed as usual with her perfect rapping skills, but M.I.A attempted to steal the show by flipping her middle finger to the camera. Oh M.I.A. you are too cool for school. Why didn’t you break out a cig and show us just how badass you are?

The Will Ferrell-look-alike tight-rope walker (apparently performing a sport called slacklining) was slightly distracting but props to the guy (named Andy Lewis) for getting some action on Twitter.

The show was visually entertaining and well produced, and while Madonna was certainly aided in the lip-syncing department she also had moments where she was singing live. Take that Elton. The performance closed with Madonna singing alongside Cee Lo Green before she was swallowed down into the stage as twinkling lights spelled out “World Peace.”

The singer clearly cared about her performance, and it showed.  And there’s nothing more endearing than a 53-year-old music legend giving a shit about what her audience thinks. Conclusion? Madonna, we love you, for wanting us to love you. And we forgive you for your new single.