The FIFA World Cup 2018 was kicked off in Moscow with a dazzling opening ceremony at the Luzhniki Stadium, before the first match between host Russia and Saudi Arabia.
The 15-minute show, Reuters reported, was produced by Russia's state Channel One. The ceremoney reportedly broke from tradition, focusing on musical acts including a performance of Pyotr Tchaikovsky in front of full stands.
The report said that Iker Casillas and Russian supermodel and philanthropist Natalia Vodianova brought the World Cup trophy onto the pitch in a Louis Vuitton travel case.
Here are photos from the event:
