Online Desk 

For the first time in the 96-year history of the FIFA World Cup, the tournament's opening celebrations will unfold across three different host nations and three separate cities. Co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, this edition of the World Cup is set to redefine one of football's most cherished traditions.

The tournament's official journey will begin at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. According to Bangladesh time, hosts Mexico will take on South Africa at 1:00 a.m. The first opening ceremony will commence approximately 90 minutes before kickoff, beginning at 11:00 p.m.

The celebrations will then move to Canada, where the host nation will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto. The match is scheduled to kick off at 1:00 a.m. Bangladesh time, while Canada's opening ceremony will begin at 11:30 p.m.

Football fans will have to wait until dawn to witness the United States' turn in the spotlight. The American opening ceremony will begin at 5:30 a.m. Bangladesh time at Los Angeles Stadium, ahead of the hosts' clash against Paraguay at 7:00 a.m.

Although each ceremony will showcase the unique identity and culture of its host nation, they will share a common message: football unites people beyond borders, languages, and differences.

Mexico City's celebration will highlight the country's indigenous heritage, vibrant folk traditions, and the renowned paper art form known as "Papel Picado." The official World Cup anthem, "Dai Dai (Let's Go)," will be performed by Colombian superstar Shakira alongside Nigerian artist Burna Boy. The lineup is also expected to feature performances by J Balvin, Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, Danny Ocean, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, Maná, and South African star Tyla.

Toronto's ceremony will celebrate Canada's history and defining national moments through immersive visual storytelling. Featured performers include Alanis Morissette, Alessia Cara, Michael Bublé, Nora Fatehi, Bangladeshi-origin artist Sanjoy, and William Prince, among other popular performers.

Meanwhile, Los Angeles will present a technology-driven spectacle featuring cutting-edge visuals and narrative-based performances. International stars such as Katy Perry, Anitta, Lisa, Future, Rema, and Tyler, the Creator are expected to take the stage.

World Cup opening ceremonies were once viewed largely as formalities. However, after Shakira's iconic performance of the official song "Waka Waka" at the 2010 FIFA World Cup captured global attention, these celebrations evolved into major entertainment spectacles. This year, the Colombian superstar returns to the World Cup stage, rekindling memories of one of football's most unforgettable musical moments.

Three countries, three cities, and three distinct atmospheres—but one universal message: football is more than just a game; it is a powerful force capable of bringing the world together.