The opening ceremony took place on Saturday 20 May and on the following day, fans were able to watch a six-a-side match for free between a Russian legends team and a team of FIFA legends. The Russian team included former-blue-white-sky blue 'keeper Vyacheslav Malafeev and current Zenit-2 boss Vladislav Radimov., The Russian team also included Dmitri Sennikov, Alexander Mostovoi, Dmitry Bulykin and Dmitri Sychev. For the World legends Brazi's Ronaldinho, Argentinia's Pablo Aimar, Australia's Harry Kewell, France's Marcel Desailly, Nigeria's Jay Jay Okocha, and Portuguese goalkeeper Vitor Baia. 

The game ended in a 9-9 draw after Russia equalised just before the final whistle, Dmitry Bulykin was the star for the home side, scoring five goals. Ronaldinho scored a hat-trick for the FIFA team with Okocha also finding the net four times.

The match then went to penalties, with Zenit's Malafeev the star, saving the penalties from Aimar and Okocha to give Russia the victory.

The Confederations Cup will be held in Russia from 17 June to 2 July and St. Petersburg will be the main city of the tournament with the opening match between Russia and New Zealand and two group stage games and the final all taking place at the Stadium St.Petersburg.