All-Somali referee team makes history in charge of 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier
The quartet, led by centre referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan and assisted by Mahad Ali Mohamud Jantalman and Hamza Hagi Abdi, with Kaafi Shiine as fourth official, managed the high-pressure encounter at Stade des Martyrs in front of 80,000 spectators.
An all-Somali referee team made history on Tuesday by overseeing a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match for the first time, taking charge of the high-stakes Group B clash between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Senegal in Kinshasa.
The quartet, led by centre referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan and assisted by Mahad Ali Mohamud Jantalman and Hamza Hagi Abdi, with Kaafi Shiine as fourth official, managed the high-pressure encounter at Stade des Martyrs in front of 80,000 spectators.
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Senegal overturned a two-goal deficit to secure a thrilling 3–2 victory, taking the lead in their group and strengthening their bid for a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
The Somali referees earned praise for their composure and control in the tense match, marking a milestone for Somali football on the international stage.
For Omar, the night was particularly significant. He is the first Somali and the only referee from sub-Saharan Africa chosen to officiate at the upcoming FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, scheduled for September 27 to October 19.
Omar, who made his debut during the Africa Cup of Nations tournament hosted in the Ivory Coast last year, is also the first Somali referee to officiate an African Champions League final, overseeing the second leg match between Egypt's Pyramid FC and South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns in June. Pyramids FC clinched the title with a 3:2 aggregate win over two legs.
"I carried the pride of millions of Somalis, the weight of our national flag, and the hopes of young people who looked up to me. That sense of duty has always driven me to give my best," Omar said after the final.
"I dedicate this achievement to the Somali people around the world for their unwavering support, belief, and encouragement."
Morocco's Jalal Jayed and Algeria's Youcef Gamouh will join Omar as the main referees from Africa during the U-20 World Cup tournament.
Gilbert Cheruiyot (Kenya), Abelmiro Montenegro (São Tomé and Príncipe), Khalil Hassani (Tunisia), Eric Ayimavo (Benin), Lahsen Azgaou (Morocco) and Mostafa Akarkad (Morocco) will join the trio as assistant referees.
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