FIFA World Cup 2018: 'Is it the hunger games?' Twitter asks after Russia 2018 opening ceremony

The FIFA World Cup 2018 started on Thursday with a glittering ceremony in Moscow. 

British singer Robbie Williams performed his hits "Let Me Entertain You" and "Rock DJ" accompanied by dancers and freestylers. 

He was joined in a duet by Russian soprano Aida Garifullina, a soloist from the Vienna State Opera, who entered the pitch on a firebird, singing Williams' hit song "Angels". 

The 15-minute show produced by Russia's state Channel One broke from World Cup tradition, focusing on musical acts including a performance of Pyotr Tchaikovsky in front of full stands at the capital's main Luzhniki stadium.

Robbie Williams surprised everyone by showing his middle finder during the performance. Kyle Walker used the moment to took a dig at Engalnd teammate Dele Ali.

So nice of Robbie to say hello to @dele_official ! pic.twitter.com/R5jWVeR73F

— Kyle Walker (@kylewalker2) June 14, 2018

Robbie Williams is the only one who can middle-finger the whole world and tell them he’s singing for them for free.

— Cris (@crixmullen) June 14, 2018

Who booked Robbie?

Can only assume that Toni Kroos was in charge of booking talent for the opening ceremony and went for his hero, Robbie Williams #WorldCup pic.twitter.com/qqch31KomL

— UNILAD Football (@UNILADFooty) June 14, 2018

Robbie Williams performing at the opening ceremony of #WorldCupRussia2018 I knew there was a time difference but what decade is it there?

— JK (@karta_13) June 14, 2018

The opening ceremony left opinions divided.

The only good opening ceremony ever was when Diana Ross missed that penalty.

— Richard Osman (@richardosman) June 14, 2018

is this Russian culture? it looks like the hunger games opening ceremony #WorldCup pic.twitter.com/NXdrnUsSyh

— rachel (@cherylopossom) June 14, 2018

The world cup hunger games ceremony was cute... now when do they kill each other?

Loved that they used time warp broadcasting to show robbie Williams. Amazing tech there...

— Red Brigade! (@rickyfer1) June 14, 2018

The opening ceremony has everyone like #WorldCupRussia2018 pic.twitter.com/I5kSLvHZS1

— Eric (@infinite_760) June 14, 2018

Russian President Vladimir Putin gave a very long speech before the match.

Putin giving this speech in the stadium before the match. pic.twitter.com/9xtTucwojj

— Paddy Power (@paddypower) June 14, 2018