21st edition of the FIFA World Cup kicks off today

The 21st edition of the FIFA World Cup kicks off in the Russian capital of Moscow this evening. 32 nations, divided into eight groups, will battle it out for the coveted trophy in the quadrennial month-long event. 

Germany are the defending champions, with five-time winners Brazil emerging as favourites. Top shot players like Argentine Lionel Messi, Portuguese



Cristiano Ronaldo and Egypt’s Mohamed Salah will all be taking part in the tournament looking to guide their teams to glory.

In the opener, hosts Russia will play Saudi Arabia in Group A at 8:30 Indian Time tonight. An elaborate opening ceremony featuring star singer Robbie Williams and Russian soprano Aida Garifullina, will precede the match at the Luzhniki Stadium.