All eyes on historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City

MEXICO CITY: The Estadio Azteca, in Mexico City, reverberated with the roar of thousands, creating a feeling like undulating waves. Laser beams filled the sky. And above that, Pelé, in the yellow jersey of Brazil, who had won the World Cup over Italy in 1970, appeared with a smile. Next to him was Diego Maradona in the iconic Azure white stripe jersey of Argentina.

The Mexico City Stadium was home to several such legendary World Cup moments, including Pelé's third World Cup win and Maradona's 'Hand of God'. By hosting the opening ceremonies of the 23rd World Cup, it also earned the distinction of being the first stadium to host three World Cups.

The theme of the opening ceremony, which began at 11 pm Indian time, was the traditional Mexican art form 'Papel Picado'. Mexico displayed the relics of its heritage through diverse designs made on colored tissue papers. This was followed by the famous Colombian singer Shakira and Nigerian singer Burna Boy performing the World Cup song 'Dai, Dai'. Musicians such as Alexandre Fernandez, Tayla, Belinda, Danny Ocean, J. Balvin, Lila Downs, Los Angeles Azules, and Mana were also part of the opening ceremony.

After a colourful opening ceremony, the Trionda ball will be taken to the stadium for the inaugural Mexico and South Africa match to be held at Indian time 12:30.