Omar Abdulkadir Artan has become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup, overseeing the opening Group A clash at the U-20 World Cup in Chile.

Artan is among a select group of African referees and the only one from Sub-Saharan Africa, chosen to lead matches at the tournament.

He took charge of the match where the United States defeated debutants New Caledonia 9-1 at Estadio El Teniente on Monday.

“This is a historic moment, not just for me but for Somali football. I hope it inspires young referees in Somalia and across Africa to dream big and pursue excellence,” Omar said.

The US set new national records for both goals scored and margin of victory at a U-20 World Cup, while captain Benjamin Cremaschi scored a first-half hat trick, becoming only the third American to achieve this in tournament history.

The USA also became just the fourth team ever to score nine goals in a single U-20 World Cup match.

Omar has steadily broken new ground in recent years. In 2024, he became the first Somali referee to officiate an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. He later took charge of the CAF Confederation Cup final between Pyramids FC of Egypt and Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa.

At the U-20 World Cup, he is being supported by Kenyan assistant referee Gilbert Cheruiyot and Abelmiro Montenegro from São Tomé and Príncipe.

“This appointment reflects the growing recognition of African referees on the global stage. I am proud to represent Somalia and Sub-Saharan Africa in this tournament,” he added.

To become a FIFA referee, one typically starts at the grassroots level, volunteering to officiate youth, school and local league matches. This experience helps build essential skills in decision-making, game management and enforcing the laws of the game. Aspiring referees then attend referee training courses offered by national football associations, covering fitness, match management and the rules of the game.

After gaining experience and obtaining national certification, referees may be nominated by their federation to pursue FIFA certification. This selective process evaluates candidates’ technical knowledge, physical fitness, and ability to perform under pressure.

Once accepted, FIFA referees are eligible to officiate at major international tournaments, including the World Cup and must continuously maintain high professional and fitness standards.