Sports Desk: After a tortuous 12-year build-up dogged by off-field controversies, the first World Cup in the Middle East finally began on Sunday night with a flashy opening ceremony.
Thousands of fans packed the Al Bayt Stadium in the Qatari city of Al Khor.
They were entertained by a lengthy firework display and performances from BTS band member, Jung Kook, and Hollywood star, Morgan Freeman.
Host nation Qatar kicked off the 2022 World Cup against Ecuador on Sunday as the month-long football showpiece finally got under way.
