Those who arrived at the stadium two hours in advance could already notice the intense movement: more than 1,200 professionals, including sound, lighting, set design, security, and production crew, worked in sync to bring to life the project planned for over two years. The central concept of the ceremony was “Unite the World,” reflecting an edition that brings together nations from all continents. Every detail was designed to represent cultural diversity and the global passion for football.
One of the highest expectations revolved around the guest artists. The organization had confirmed months earlier the participation of Andrea Bocelli, the Italian tenor considered one of the greatest voices in world music, and Lisa, a member of the global phenomenon BLACKPINK, a group that has conquered fans in every corner of the planet.
“Football is emotion, and music is the purest way to express it”
Behind the scenes, the interaction between the two artists became one of the most talked-about moments of the night. Bocelli, known for his friendliness, arrived about an hour before the dress rehearsal to talk with Lisa, and both exchanged compliments and impressions about the importance of music and sports. “It is an immense honor to participate in an event that brings together people from all cultures,” Bocelli stated in a private conversation with journalists minutes before the performance. “Football is emotion, and music is the purest way to express it,” he added.
Lisa revealed that she rehearsed for three weeks, balancing the group’s schedule with the preparations for the show. “I always dreamed of being at a World Cup, but I never imagined it would be as an artist. It is a huge responsibility and an even greater joy,” she said.
Ceremony prepared with great care and attention
The production also took special care with the stage structure. Set up in the center of the pitch, it was designed to be removed in less than 20 minutes after the show without causing damage to the field, ensuring ideal conditions for the opening match. All logistics were tested more than ten times, including simulations carried out during the early hours of the morning to ensure everything worked perfectly.
In addition to the two international stars, the ceremony featured local artists, dancers, and performances paying tribute to Mexican culture—from references to ancient civilizations to contemporary artistic expressions. There was also an emotional moment with legendary former players entering the field carrying the World Cup trophy, received with a standing ovation by the more than 80,000 people present in the stadium.
The spectacle: voice, rhythm, and emotion that stopped the planet
When the stadium lights went out and a beam illuminated the center of the pitch, silence took over the Azteca. Then, the unmistakable voice of Andrea Bocelli echoed through the stadium in his performance of the official theme song of the competition, “DNA,” a composition that mixes elements of opera, Latin music, and pop. The audience watched in absolute admiration, and many fans could not contain their emotions during the performance.
Next, it was Lisa’s turn to take the stage. Wearing an outfit inspired by Korean and Mexican cultures, she performed a special version of one of BLACKPINK’s biggest hits, adapted exclusively for the World Cup opening. The reaction was immediate: the entire stadium sang along, vibrating in a spectacle of lights, dance, and collective enthusiasm.
The most memorable moment of the ceremony occurred when Bocelli and Lisa shared the stage for a surprise duet, performing a song about unity and hope—a symbolic choice for a World Cup hosted by three countries and watched by billions of people around the planet.
At the end of the performance, the two artists received an award from the tournament organization. In a relaxed tone, Bocelli drew laughter by commenting: “Now the best part begins: football.”
The match: Mexico vs. South Africa officially opens the World Cup
Less than 20 minutes after the end of the ceremony, the pitch was completely cleared, the nets were set up, and the players from Mexico and South Africa entered the field under the deafening cheers of the Mexican fans, who packed the Azteca.
The atmosphere was festive, but also one of enormous expectation: after all, it was the first match of the largest World Cup in history, now featuring 48 participating teams.
The start of the game was balanced. South Africa, known for their physical strength and tactical organization, sought to control possession, while Mexico, driven by the crowd, pressed from the very first minutes.
In the 18th minute of the first half, the historic moment arrived. Following a play built down the left, a misplaced pass by the South African goalkeeper allowed forward Julián Quiñones to catch the rebound and shoot into the net between the goalkeeper’s legs. Goal for Mexico.
The stadium exploded in celebration. Mexican flags took over the stands, cheers echoed throughout the stadium, and even members of the coaching staff celebrated intensely on the sidelines.
Behind the scenes, the reaction was similar. The artists who had participated in the ceremony, now in the reserved area, cheered like true fans. “What a beautiful goal! That’s what the World Cup does: it moves you in every way,” Lisa commented with a smile. Andrea Bocelli, who was following the match commentary alongside the ceremony delegation, also celebrated the moment: “That is the magic of football. You don’t explain it, you just feel it.”
The rest of the first half remained lively, with Mexico trying to extend their lead and South Africa seeking an equalizer. By halftime, the hosts maintained a 1-0 advantage. Afterwards, Mexico scored another goal, and a South African player received a red card and was sent off.
What lies ahead
The 2026 World Cup has already made history even before the conclusion of the group stage. The opening ceremony showed that football is much more than a sport: it is a meeting point between cultures, a collective celebration, and a universal language capable of uniting people from all corners of the planet.
Behind the scenes, the meticulous work, the dedication of the teams, and the care given to every detail ensured a grand start for the tournament. Now, the world’s attention turns to the next matches, the surprises that will arise, and the new historic chapters yet to be written.
As the FIFA president stated during the opening speech: “Today, the world is here. Today, we are all one team.”
And, with the first goal scored and the ball finally rolling, the history of this World Cup has only just begun.
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