More than 80,000 fans filled the fantastic stadium, and they witness a ceremony that was spectacular in the extreme, featuring song, dance, art, music, and of course fireworks.
The opening match of the tournament was between hosts Australia, and the Argentinean Pumas.
In a disjointed first period, the home side capitalised on Argentinean mistakes to build a lead they were never to relinquish.
Read a detailed match report on the official IRB Rugby World Cup 2003 website by clicking here.
Wales’ first game is against Canada on Sunday. wru.co.uk will cover all the action.
