Somali referee Omar Artan has described officiating the UEFA Super Cup as a deeply significant moment in his career, calling the assignment his “World Cup” after being unable to take part in the tournament itself.

The 34-year-old referee had been selected by FIFA for the World Cup but was denied entry into the United States when he arrived at Miami International Airport.

US authorities reportedly cited concerns over alleged associations with suspected terrorist organisations. Artan rejected the allegations, which sparked strong reactions in Somalia.

Despite the setback, Artan received an opportunity to officiate at a major international fixture when UEFA appointed him for the Super Cup clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa in Salzburg.

PSG won the encounter 2-1, giving Artan a significant stage on which to demonstrate his abilities.

UEFA later highlighted the occasion by sharing an image of the match ball carrying a message written by Artan. The gesture reflected the importance he attached to the assignment after missing out on the World Cup.

Following the match, Artan thanked UEFA and the Confederation of African Football for supporting him and providing the opportunity.

He expressed appreciation for the trust placed in him and for the welcome he received in Europe.

His appointment also carried wider significance because UEFA has sought closer cooperation with CAF.

The decision to give an African referee a prominent role in the Super Cup was therefore seen as an important gesture of collaboration between the two football confederations.

For Artan, however, the occasion represented more than another assignment. After an unexpected setback had prevented him from reaching the World Cup, the UEFA Super Cup provided an opportunity to officiate on one of football’s biggest stages.

His journey from being turned away in the United States to taking charge of a major European fixture has made the Super Cup a memorable chapter in his refereeing career.