Li Xian makes Fifa World Cup history - but not with the kick-off fans expected (VIDEO)

ATLANTA, June 23 — Chinese actor Li Xian has made Fifa World Cup history by becoming the first Chinese artist to take part in an official pre-match ceremony — although fans expecting him to perform a ceremonial kick-off were in for a surprise.

Ahead of Spain’s Group H clash against Saudi Arabia yesterday, the Go Go Squid! star stepped onto the pitch in what marked an unprecedented moment for a Chinese entertainer at football’s biggest tournament, according to Beijing Daily.

But instead of taking the symbolic first kick from the centre circle as many fans had anticipated, Li’s role was to carry the official match ball onto the field and place it on a ceremonial pedestal before the teams emerged.

Videos shared by spectators on social media showed the actor walking onto the pitch with the match ball before waving to the crowd and posing for photographs, prompting plenty of online chatter from fans who had expected a more traditional kick-off ceremony.

The role was part of Fifa’s official pre-match protocol in collaboration with Adidas, the sportswear giant that counts Li among its global ambassadors.

According to Adidas, the appointed guest joins Fifa officials in the players’ tunnel before kick-off, carries the official match ball to a designated stand at the player entrance, takes part in the team line-ups and national anthems, and later watches the match from a VIP box.

Li appeared more than ready for the occasion.

Just before arriving at the stadium, he posted six photos on Weibo with the caption: "I’m ready. Are you?"

The actor later reflected on the experience, posting: “Honoured to deliver the official match ball for #FIFAWorldCup and witness a great match!” while tagging Adidas and Adidas Football.

The appearance had been teased days earlier after Adidas officially announced Li as its ceremonial guest for the Spain-Saudi Arabia fixture and presented him with a certificate of appointment.

For Li, the moment also represented a personal milestone.

The actor, best known for dramas including Medical Examiner Dr Qin, has long been an outspoken football fan, regularly supporting Real Madrid and idolising Cristiano Ronaldo. He has previously travelled to Madrid several times to watch matches at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Now, instead of watching from the stands, Li has earned his own place in World Cup history.

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