Brazil is currently facing one of its worst times as issues such as economic recession, political protest and the massive outbreak of Zika virus has almost crippled the country.

Despite all of these, the country has stood firm, insisting it is ready to host the first Olympics to be held in a South American city and it partly proved this on Friday, August 5, 2016 when it brought the world to a standstill as over 2 billion people turned their attention to the Maracana stadium for the opening of the Rio 2016 Olympics.

The opening ceremony consisted of an artistic light show celebrating the history of the Brazilian culture, an amazing firework show that lit the sky after that, a elegant Parade of Nations and lastly the lighting of the cauldron by Vanderlei Cordeiro de Lima, a Brazilian marathon runner – who won bronze for Brazil at the 2004 Games in Athens after being attacked by a spectator, which dropped him to third.

The country indeed made a statement last night. In light of this, YNaija brings 34 pictures for you to relive the experience in case you missed the historic event,

An alluring fireworks display – which ushered in the games in the historic city of Rio de janeiro.

Brazil’s flag being hoisted during the ceremony.

The top-notch digital show

Dance, dance and dance!!!

Sparks flying

The alluring light show

 

Model Giselle Bunchen’s show-stopping catwalk as The Girl From Ipanema – one of the biggest worldwide hits of the 1960’s.

Love your environment as you love yourself

Argentina’s Olympic team in the Parade of Nations.

Brazil’s Olympic team in the Parade of Nations.

Greece kicks off the Parade of Nations. 

Selfie time – Members of the Austaralia’s team in the Parade of Nations.

 

I’m happy to be here – Rafeal Nadal smiles alongside members of Spain’s Olympic team in the Parade of Nations.

USA!!!

The Olympic rings are formed.

The ceremony is officially declared open after the cauldron is lit by Vanderlei Cordeiro de Lima.

Let the Games begin – Vanderlei Cordeiro de Lima waves after successfully lighting the cauldron. 

The Olympic fire is lit.

Fireworks light up the sky around the Marcana stadium.

Colour!!!