In a moment of relief amid turmoil, Ukraine delivered morale-boosting news and a political win during the first Eurovision 2022 semi-final, solidifying a strong lead as the event progressed. Greece also featured prominently as a key contender.
Switzerland, Armenia, Iceland, Lithuania, Portugal, Norway, Moldova, and the Netherlands stood on one side of the competition, while Austria, Latvia, Slovenia, Croatia, Albania, Denmark, and Bulgaria were eliminated from this phase.
Opening with a striking performance from the venue in Turin, the show leaned into the electric guitar motif that helped Italy’s Maneskin triumph in 2021.
Spanish fans and observers noted the enduring appeal of Italian songs such as Fai Rumor by Diodato, who had his moment after the cancellation of the 2020 edition, and the memorable Party by Raffaella Carrà, which left a lasting impression even as time moved on.
Qualifying countries
- Lithuania
- Switzerland
- Ukraine
- Netherlands
- Moldova
- Portugal
- Iceland
- Greece
- Norway
- Armenia
When the competition unfolded, Albanian artist Ronela Hajati set the evening alight with a bold number that fused a tribal rhythm with theatrical elements, challenging both critics and spectators with a performance that kept the audience attentive. The moment suggested a shift away from formula ballads toward more dynamic stagecraft.
Behind the scenes, organizers moved away from predictable formats toward lively disco-funk arrangements, with Citi Zēni from Latvia presenting a breezy, jazzy touch, Lithuania’s Monika Liu delivering a more emotional performance, and Swiss artist Marius Bear offering a memorable, earnest ballad that resonated with many viewers.
This phase also highlighted the Slovenian group LPS with their mesmerizing disk-themed act, juxtaposed against other diverse entries like Moldova’s Zdob şi Zdub & Advahov Brothers and Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra, which brought a blend of folk and contemporary energy to the show.
Fans and bookmakers alike had expressed strong expectations for several acts, and despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in the region, many performances delivered a brilliant and electrifying show that captivated both judges and audiences around the world.
Eliminated Countries
- Albania
- Latvia
- Slovenia
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Denmark
- Austria
There was much commentary about the production design around Turin, including visual elements near fountains and screens. Some entries faced criticism for how they translated the stage into the broadcast, while others were praised for their bold, fresh angles. The Bulgarian entry faced questions about its punch, while the Danish act REDDI offered a spirited reinterpretation of rebellion and pop, though it did not advance as hoped. Croatia’s Mia Dimšić performed a Swift-inspired ballad that drew tears from many viewers.
Date, time and where to watch the 2022 Eurovision final
Despite lingering restrictions in Austria, the program kept a high-energy atmosphere with a circular stage design and dynamic lighting. Norway’s Subwoolfer, the yellow wolf character, drew attention for their quirky stage presence, pairing humor with a catchy chorus. The Portuguese entry, Maro, conveyed a sense of saudade, while the Dutch act S10 performed in Dutch with a hopeful, introspective tone—the final round featured a deeply emotional close. Iceland’s Systur embraced folkloric sensibilities with a modern, understated approach, and Armenia’s Rosa Linn delivered a dramatic, memorable ballad that left a lasting impact. Amanda Tenfjord’s candid performance offered a heartfelt moment that many predicted could propel her toward an upset victory, while the overall field remained fiercely competitive.