Artists perform at the opening ceremony of the 2022 World Cup at Al-Bayt Stadium in Al Khor city, Qatar, November 20, 2022. Photo: Xinhua/VNA

The extravaganza began with typical camels of the Middle East followed by the narration of 85-year-old American actor and one-time Oscar winner Morgan Freeman. He spoke to a 20-year-old Qatari YouTuber Ghanim Al Muftah, who has no legs. "What unites us is greater than what divides us. We are one big tribe and the Earth is our tent. Together we can make the call for everyone to unite," the actor said.  

The opening ceremony continued with performances by hundreds of artists from the host country Qatar. World Cup mascots appeared in the accompaniment of songs associated with football.

Afterwards, the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani on behalf of the host country sent greetings to the 32 competing teams.

The official song of the World Cup 2022 called Hayya, Hayya, Better Together was performed by Trinidad Cardona (USA), Davido (Nigeria) and Aisha (Qatar).

Al Bayt Stadium, with a capacity of 60,000 seats, is about 35 km north of the capital Doha. This is one of seven new stadiums built by Qatar to serve the World Cup.