Kenyan ref revived up for World Cup challenge

NAIROBI, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Kenyan referee Aden Range Marwa cannot wait to represent his country with distinction at the Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup this summer.

With Kenya's national football team yet to feature at the Mundial, Marwa is among 99 match officials who will be on duty at the global showpiece having been selected by the world governing body for a second tournament in a row after serving at Brazil 2014.

Speaking in Nairobi on Thursday, Marwa underlined his intentions to fly the national flag with honour in an effort to make Kenya's presence felt at the biggest football show on the planet that will run from June 14 to July 15 where Germany will launch a defence of their title.

He will be among the 63 assistants (10 from Confederation of African Football) who will aid 36 referees in presiding over the 64 games of the tournament.

"This is a very rare opportunity to get. I'm proud of the achievement. I'm happy and humbled to represent Kenya at the World Cup," Marwa told reporters in Thursday.

The 41-year-old is optimistic Kenyan born Divock Origi will be part of Belgium squad for the competition.

"Seeing a compatriot take part in the competition is so refreshing. It strengthens your level of patriotism to your country," he said.

Marwa was part of the match officials in charge of the last 16 knockout clash between Belgium and the United States at Brazil 2014 where he made his World Cup bow.

"It was the best experience of my life. I learnt a lot from the match which has helped to shape my career four years later," he said.

The mathematics and chemistry teacher has also officiated other high profile games including FIFA Club World Cup final between UEFA Champions League winners, Real Madrid, against Kashima Antlers in 2016 as an assistant referee. Enditem