The wait is finally over because FIFA World Cup 2018 will kick off today, 14th June 2018 in Russia. The very first order of business will be to entertain the World. President Vladimir Putin will certainly want everything to go perfectly well today. The hosts will then take on Saudi Arabia in a must-win clash at the iconic Luzhniki Stadium. Let us take you through what to expect on day one.
The opening ceremony will kick off at 16:30 CAT, 17:30 EAT or 3:30 pm BST. The iconic Luzhniki Stadium will host the opening and closing ceremonies. The 80,000 Capacity venue will also host the opening clash and the final.
The world will enjoy the local culture for 30 minutes before the first match starts. The organizers have lined up around 500 dancers, gymnasts, and Trampolinists.
The headline musical performance will be delivered by English pop icon Robbie Williams. You can expect fireworks from the 90s superstar and he is ready to make it memorable. He will be on stage alongside famous Russian soprano Aida Garifullina.
Others expected to perform on the big day include Opera maestros Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo and José Carreras to mesmerize your football soul ahead of the month-long showdown. They are remembered for their amazing performance in 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy.
"It is interesting that football events are usually opened by opera stars because classical music is a universal code understood by residents of every country," Organizers remarks.
Finally, before the curtains come down on the opening ceremony, you will get to hear the official Russia World Cup song called 'Live It Up'. This year the song was done by Will Smith, Nicky Jam, and Kosovar Albanian singer Era Istrefi. In 2010 we remember Shakira 'Waka Waka' song. Jennifer Lopez and Pitbull took over in 2014.
Football fans across the World continue to test their expertise on SokkaaStars World Cup Fantasy Football game. Do you have football managerial skills but didn't have a chance to showcase your potential? No more worries! SokkaaStars has got your back. Play it today and compete with other Maestros worldwide for a chance to win $25 airtime prize during this year Russia World Cup. Click here for more.