Qatar World Cup’s opening ceremony: All you need to know

On Sunday, Qatar will face Ecuador in the opening game of the 2022 World Cup, with the hosts hoping to get off to a flawless start with all three points. They must, however, first put on a great show after the opening ceremony. Here's all you need to know about the 2022 World Cup’s opening ceremony, including when it takes place, how to watch it and who will perform.

When will the World Cup kick-off?

The 2022 World Cup will start on Sunday, November 20 at 2 p.m. (GMT) at the 60,000-capacity Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, Qatar. The opening was actually scheduled for November 21, after two games had already been played, but it was moved ahead with the opening match between Qatar and Ecuador to maintain the tradition of the first game featuring the hosts.

What to Look For?

The first match, between Qatar and Ecuador (4 pm GMT), will be broadcast on BBC One, and will also be streamed live on BBC iPlayer and the BBC iPlayer app. The BBC's coverage of the game begins at 3 p.m. (GMT), however, the opening ceremony is scheduled to be shown early as part of the build-up to the game.

FAQs:

1. Who is performing at the ceremony?
   BTS's K-pop superstar Jeon Jungkook, Indian actor and dancer Nora Fatehi, American musical group Black Eyed Peas and others will perform at the FIFA World Cup 2022 opening ceremony ahead of the tournament's first game between Qatar and Ecuador.
2. Who are the teams in the first World Cup match?
   On Sunday, November 20, Qatar will face Ecuador in the first match of this year's edition.