Wednesday January 17, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) -Omar Abdulkadir Artan has etched his name in the annals of Somali sports history by becoming the inaugural referee from Somalia to officiate at the esteemed Africa Cup of Nations.
Artan, aged 30, has swiftly risen through the ranks of African football referees since his introduction to CAF games in 2020. Renowned for his sharp decision-making and commanding presence on the field, he has garnered recognition as one of Africa's most promising young referees.
The match between Tunisia and Namibia was a nail-biting Group E opener, ending with Namibia securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Tunisia. Deon Hotto's timely header in the 88th minute sealed the win for Namibia.
Artan's contribution was pivotal in maintaining a fair and smooth game, upholding the principles of sportsmanship. He received support from Kenyan referees Gilbert Cheruiyot and Stephen Yiembe, who served as his first and second assistant referees.
Somalia's footballing landscape faced numerous challenges due to instability and conflict that plagued the country for decades. However, recent efforts to restore peace and security have created opportunities for football revival. FIFA played a pivotal role in this revival by offering training to Somali referees and young footballers. Training had been halted for many years due to the unstable situation in the country. However, with the security improvement, FIFA resumed its training programs.
One beneficiary of these training sessions was Aweys Abdullahi, an assistant referee who had officiated in international matches before Artan. These initiatives aimed to enhance the skills and experiences of Somali referees, allowing them to participate in international football events.
Artan's achievements not only reflect his dedication and talent but also underscore the progress and revitalization of Somali football. The participation of Somali referees in international competitions contributes to Somalia's reintegration into the global football community.