Somali referee Omar Artan has described officiating the UEFA Super Cup clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa as one of the most significant moments of his career.
Artan made history on Wednesday, August 11, when he took charge of the prestigious European fixture, becoming the first African referee to officiate a UEFA match.
The landmark appointment represented a major milestone not only for Artan and Somali football but also for African refereeing, particularly after the challenges the 2026 FIFA World Cup presented for the Somali official.
Artan, who is recognised as one of Africa’s leading referees, missed the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America after being denied entry into the United States.
Despite the disappointment, he was handed another major opportunity on the international stage when UEFA appointed him to officiate the Super Cup encounter involving two of Europe’s top clubs.
For Artan, the assignment was about much more than simply taking charge of another high-profile match. It provided an opportunity to write his name into the history of European football while representing Africa and Somalia on a prestigious platform.
Following the match, Artan reflected emotionally on the significance of the occasion, writing a heartfelt message on the official match ball.
“It was my World Cup. Thank you, UEFA. You have truly made my life better forever.”
The message highlighted just how deeply the appointment affected the Somali referee, who had been left frustrated after missing the World Cup.
The UEFA Super Cup ultimately gave Artan the opportunity to turn that disappointment into a historic achievement.
His appearance also carries broader significance for African refereeing. By becoming the first African official to officiate a UEFA match, Artan has broken new ground and further demonstrated the growing recognition of African match officials on the global stage.
For Somali football, the achievement is equally significant. Artan continues to raise the profile of his country through his performances and achievements in international refereeing.
After missing football’s biggest tournament, the Somali official was handed another major stage—and he seized the opportunity to create history.
For Artan, the UEFA Super Cup was, in his own words, “my World Cup”—a defining moment that will remain one of the most cherished chapters of his refereeing career.
His historic achievement could also inspire a new generation of African referees who dream of reaching the highest levels of international football.
