22:12

The opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup has been held.

Axar.az reports that the event took place at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

The artistic segment of the ceremony featured performances by world-renowned singer Shakira, as well as David Guetta, EJAE, Megan Thee Stallion, and Andrea Bocelli.

"In this stadium, along with Canada and the United States we welcome the 48 flags," she said in Spanish. "Us Mexicans are very honored to be here where the World Cup begins."

A parade of the national flags of the 48 participating countries was then held.

Following the opening ceremony, the first match of the tournament between Mexico and South Africa got underway.

It should be noted that the World Cup is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. FIFA also plans to hold opening events in the other two host countries before their first matches.