A solemn opening ceremony of the FIFA U-17 Women`s World Cup has today been held at the Tofig Bakhramov Republican Stadium in Baku. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, first lady Mehriban Aliyeva and his family members attended the event.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, first lady Mehriban Aliyeva and his family members attended the event.

Prior to the ceremony, President Ilham Aliyev, first lady Mehriban Aliyeva and his family members met with FIFA President Joseph Blatter.

The tournament opened by a magnificent show involving world-famous Cirque du Soleil, self-described as a "dramatic mix of circus arts and street entertainment", and pop singer Jennifer Lopez.

After the ceremony, Azerbaijani and Columbian national teams entered the pitch.

President Ilham Aliyev and Joseph Blatter congratulated players of the teams and referees and wished them successes.