Doha, 12 January 2024 - The AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 officially started today, January 12, with a colourful and dazzling opening ceremony and fireworks celebrations at Lusail Stadium.
The opening act saw a performance of the lost chapter of Kelilah and Demnah, a collection of ancient fables popular in the Middle East that feature many animals and include two wise-jackals.
The performance eventually culminated with a singing of the official tournament anthem, the song ‘Hadaf’ performed by Qatari artist Fahad Al-Hajjaji and Kuwaiti Humood AlKhudher.
Qatar national team captain Hassan Al Haydos, who was intended to take the tournament oath, announced that he would be passing the honor to the Palestine team captain Musab Al-Battat.
The closing portion of the opening ceremony included singing part of the Palestinian national anthem.
