“It was my World Cup,” wrote Somali referee Omar Artan after officiating the UEFA Super Cup

The Somali referee left a message on the match ball after Paris Saint-Germain’s victory over Aston Villa on Wednesday.

Omar Artan experienced a special moment after officiating the UEFA Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa on Wednesday 11 August. The Somali referee, who had been denied entry to the United States whilst due to take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, was moved after his historic performance in a European match.

For Omar Artan, refereeing the UEFA Super Cup match represents a major achievement. It is a memory the Somali referee will cherish forever.

“It was my World Cup. Thank you, UEFA. You have truly made my life better forever,” wrote Omar Artan on the match ball from the UEFA Super Cup.

Omar Artan has become the first African referee to officiate a UEFA match.