Flashback #18: World Cup Opening At Soldier Field (1994)

As of 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary on January 3rd, the station has begun to reveal (in chronological order) the Top 100 Chicago Sports Stories that have occurred since they first went on the air 20 years ago. Once all 100 of these "flashbacks" have been revealed, fans will be able to vote for which stories they believe are the most significant in the 20 year history of The Score. To see all of the Flashbacks that The Score has posted so far, please visit 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary page.

June 17, 1994 - World Cup Opening at Soldier Field

Not only was the United States selected to host the 1994 FIFA World Cup, but the city of Chicago was chosen to host its opening ceremonies.

Solider Field -- home of the Chicago Bears -- was set to host the famous opening ceremony. Though predominately known for its football games, soccer had been played at Soldier Field before. In fact, the Chicago Sting of the NASL and the Chicago Spurs of the NPSL had called Soldier Field home in the 1960s and 70s.

The ceremony, emceed by Oprah Winfrey, saw such dignitaries as United States President Bill Clinton, Chancellor of Germany Helmut Kohl and President of Bolivia Gonzalo Sánchez de Lozada. In addition, Daryl Hall, Jon Secada and Diana Ross gave musical performances.

Check out this video from the Opening Day ceremony.

The Score will continue to release a new Flashback each weekday until they reach 100. Check back tomorrow for a new one, or check out all of the previous Flashbacks: 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary »