2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar kicks off with spectacular opening ceremony

The 2022 FIFA World Cup hosted in Qatar has kicked off with a spectacular opening ceremony, held at Al Bayt Stadium in the city of Al Khor.

The show featured Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman, who made a surprise live appearance, treating the crowd with an inspiring speech.

Further performances were given by world-renowned Korean pop sensation Jung Kook belting out his song ‘Dreamers’, Qatari singer Fahad Al-Kubaisi, and Qatari YouTube star Ghanim al-Muftah, who recited from the Quran, along with hundreds of performers.

A gigantic version of this year’s mascot La’eeb floated overhead during the festivities. La’eeb is Arabic, with the meaning ‘super-skilled player, dating back to the comics of the late 1940s.

The performances included a diverse representation of all the countries and teams that will be competing this year.

The winner of the 1998 World Cup Marcel Desailly of France delivered the trophy in front of thousands of cheerings fans.

Festivities concluded with vibrant displays of fireworks, prior to the first match between Qatar and Ecuador.