The FIFA World Cup 2022 Opening Ceremony did not disappoint, as expected, with Morgan Freeman and Jungkook taking the spotlight.
The 60,000 present at the Al Bayt Stadium for the first match between hosts Qatar and opponents Ecuador were witness to a spectacular Opening Ceremony.
Celebrities such as Shakira, Rod Stewart and Dua Lipa rejecting the offer to perform had made the rounds in the weeks leading up to the FIFA World Cup 2022.
American Hollywood legend Morgan Freeman, though, made his presence felt as he narrated about unity and introduced Ghanem Al-Muftah, who recited the Holy Quran. Jungkook of BTS performed "Dreamers", which is the official song of the 2022 World Cup, alongside Qatari singer Fahad Al-Kubaisi.
Songs from the previous editions of the FIFA World Cup were played, including K'naan's Wavin' Flag and Shakira's Waka Waka (This Time for Africa), with dancers performing to the tunes.
The match between Qatar and Ecuador kicks off at 9:30 PM IST.
