Omar Artan had his bags packed and his whistle ready. The Somali referee was on the verge of making history as the first person from his country to officiate at a World Cup finals, until US immigration authorities stepped in and barred him from entering the country.
The decision has sparked conversation across the football world and beyond. For many Africans and fans of the game on the continent, Artan's journey represented something bigger than a single tournament appointment. Referees from smaller football nations rarely make it to the game's biggest stage, and his selection was a genuine milestone for Somali football.
What makes this moment sting is how close it came to being real. The appointment was confirmed. The history was within reach. Now, questions are being asked about how immigration decisions intersect with sport, and whether governing bodies have a responsibility to protect officials in situations like this one.
Artan's story is not over, but the chapter that should have been written in the United States this summer will not be. Watch this space.
Originally published by BBC Africa.