Of all the people you’d expect to see at the opening of a World Cup ceremony, Morgan Freeman is probably not high on your list.
And yet, the American actor played a starring role as Qatar 2022 kicked off and gave a speech about unity.
The ceremony raged at a breakneck pace through multiple dance troupes, drumming performances and popular music from all four corners of the world.
Fans still trickled in as those already in their seats were treated to even more light shows and huge projections on the pitch.
The biggest cheer, however, seemed to be reserved for a giant flying La’eeb – the popular mascot of this year’s World Cup.
Less than an hour before kick-off, there are still some empty seats in the stadium, but that will surely change once the traffic outside starts to ease.
Thousands of Ecuadorian fans make the loudest noise behind one of the goals as players take to the pitch for their warm-up.