France Under-20s praise Omar Abdulkadir Artan after US decision not to admit referee | OneFootball

France Under-20s who encountered Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan at last October’s U20 World Cup have praised his approach after learning via social media that the United States would not admit him. According to L'Équipe, events on Saturday have already left the 34-year-old out of the World Cup.

Artan oversaw the third-place play-off between France and Colombia in Chile, which the Bleuets lost 0-1. He has forged a strong reputation in Africa, including the CAF Champions League final second leg between FAR Rabat and Mamelodi Sundowns that ended 1-1 after a 1-2 first leg. He also worked in the Saudi Pro League this season and officiated at the last Africa Cup of Nations.

Midfielder Côme Andréa Le Borgne felt that, for a third-place play-off, he was top level, diplomatic and willing to let play continue, and that he communicated when required. He added that while many fouls went uncalled, overall the officiating was good.

Ilane Touré echoed that view, saying Artan consulted VAR when in doubt and explained his decisions. The match itself was controlled by Colombia and brought six yellow cards.

Moustapha Dabo, the Nantes winger who started that day, rated him among the best he has had, highlighting a pedagogical style and readiness to explain, even while play continued. He said it was a pity to see what the referee is going through.

Source: L'Équipe