US R&B singer and songwriter Beyonce Knowles is set for a World Cup call-up by performing in the opening ceremony at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto.

FIFA are keen to ensure that next year's show-piece event in South Africa is amongst the best ever and a lavish, kaleidoscopic opening ceremony featuring the very best in terms of performers have been called upon.

FIFA are keen to abolish the memories of World Cup 1994 where US diva Diana Ross inexplicable botched a penalty form two yards in what was perhaps the worst miss in the history of football.

Likewise, the customary yet interminable flag-waving processions are set to be ditched in favour of a more glamorous opening ceremony, according to The Guardian.

FIFA are also said to have contacted US producer and media entrepreneur Kevin Wall, who is the creator of Live Earth and has experience of organising large-scale stadium showpiece events, to help with the extravaganza.

Beyonce, 28, has been asked to give the event a 'Live 8 concert feel' alongside other prolific musicians and performers such as Jay-Z and the Black Eyed Peas.

"We believe sports and music transcend cultural, language and geographic barriers, and through this international event, Control Room will present the sights and sounds of unity and celebration for an unforgettable experience of which all will want to be a part," said Wall.

With all eyes set to turn to the African continent next summer, FIFA will be hoping to draw in, amongst other things, younger viewers as well as music fans who traditionally shy away from the opening ceremony.

The chief executive of the 2010 FIFA World Cup organising committee, Danny Jordaan, is convinced that the idea will be a success; "There are few things in life that can kindle such widespread passion as football, but music is without doubt one of them. With this celebratory kick-off event, football fans are in for a huge treat."