The FIFA World Cup got off to a spectacular start in Canada on Friday with a star-studded opening ceremony in Toronto ahead of the Group B clash between co-hosts Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Bollywood actor, singer, and dancer Nora Fatehi stole the spotlight as she performed the tournament’s official anthem, “Siir Siir,” captivating fans at the packed Toronto Stadium before kick-off.
The opening ceremony featured an impressive lineup of international performers, including Vegedream and Sanjoy, who entertained spectators with energetic performances. Canadian artists Jessie Reyez and Alessia Cara also took to the stage, while Palestinian singer Elyanna added an international flavour to the festivities at BMO Field in Toronto.
The tournament marks a historic moment for Canada, which is hosting FIFA World Cup matches for the first time. The host nation began its much-anticipated campaign against Bosnia and Herzegovina, a team that qualified for the tournament after a notable victory over Italy during the qualification phase.
While the opening ceremony received praise for its entertainment value and global appeal, it also sparked debate among football fans on social media. Some supporters expressed disappointment, arguing that FIFA’s second opening ceremony lacked the excitement and grandeur expected from the world’s biggest sporting event.
Attention also shifted to attendance figures after television broadcasts showed visible empty seats in parts of the stadium in Toronto. Similar concerns emerged during the tournament’s second fixture between South Korea and Czechia at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, where sections of unoccupied seats were noticeable.
Reports suggested that approximately 180,000 tickets remained available through FIFA’s official resale platforms on the eve of the tournament, while nearly 15,000 group-stage tickets were still available for purchase directly through FIFA.
However, FIFA strongly rejected claims that stadiums were underfilled. In an official statement, the governing body explained that attendance figures are based on ticket scans and the number of spectators present within the stadium premises, rather than visual assessments of occupied seats during matches.
FIFA also noted that many supporters often spend significant periods in concourse areas, hospitality sections, and fan zones rather than remaining in their assigned seats throughout the game.
The governing body reiterated that all attendance figures released during the tournament are based on verified operational data and are compiled in coordination with stadium authorities and ticketing teams.
Despite the debate surrounding attendance, the FIFA World Cup’s opening day successfully showcased football’s global appeal, blending sport, music, and culture in front of audiences across the world.
As the tournament progresses, organizers will be hoping that fan turnout increases and that the focus remains firmly on the action on the pitch as nations battle for football’s most prestigious prize.
