Wednesday September 18, 2024
Somali international referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, appointed by CAF, officiates the semifinal match against Mamelodi Sundowns earlier this year. (Getty Images)
Mogadishu HOL) — CAF has announced the officiating team for the highly anticipated Super Cup match between Egyptian rivals Al Ahly and Zamalek, with Somali referee Abdulkadir Artan appointed as the fourth official.
Artan's appointment continues Artan's ascent in football officiating, adding another milestone to his career.
The match is set for September 27 at the Kingdom Arena in Saudi Arabia, with a kickoff at 9 PM CET. Leading the team of officials is Libyan referee Moataz Ibrahim, supported by assistant referees Attia A’mesead and Tunisian Khalil El Hassany. South African referee Tom Abungil will head the VAR team, with Moroccan Zakaria Brensy assisting. Ticket sales have already sold out, indicating the high demand and enthusiasm for this clash of Cairo's football titans.
Artan’s involvement in this prestigious African football fixture is a major achievement, reflecting his growth since joining the CAF officiating roster in 2020. At 30, he has earned respect for his clear decision-making and composure under pressure. His recent role at the Africa Cup of Nations, where he made history as the first Somali referee to officiate at the tournament, solidified his reputation. In the Group E opener between Tunisia and Namibia, Artan was lauded for his handling of a tense match that ended in a narrow 1-0 victory for Namibia.
Beyond Artan's success, his selection is a testament to the progress of Somali football. For decades, Somalia's footballing infrastructure was hindered by ongoing conflict and instability. In recent years, efforts to stabilize the country have allowed for a football revival, aided significantly by FIFA's training initiatives. These programs, which resumed after being suspended due to security concerns, have provided Somali referees and young players with vital development opportunities. Officials like Artan and his fellow Somali assistant referee Aweys Abdullahi have been at the forefront of this resurgence.
The Super Cup showdown will feature Al Ahly, the reigning CAF Champions League winners, against Zamalek, the current CAF Confederation Cup holders. The last time these two teams faced off in the Super Cup was in 1994, with Zamalek securing a 1-0 win.