The soft-spoken Uzbek, a two-time AFC Referee of the Year, has been chosen by FIFA to referee the opening FIFA World Cup 2010 finals match between hosts South Africa and Mexico at Soccer City in Johannesburg on June 11.

Speaking at the FIFA media open day, the 32-year-old said: “We are not refereeing for the first time. That’s why we are used to this atmosphere. We go and just do our jobs. Nothing extraordinary.”

For Tashkent-born Irmatov, pressure is just part and parcel of referee’s job. He is well prepared even though he knows the eyes of the world will be upon him.

“These kinds of pressure-packed games are the pinnacle of a referee’s career,” said Irmatov. “Every referee dreams of being at the World Cup, those that don’t have that dream are not professional referees.

“And every referee wishes to officiate at the opening game and final of the World Cup. I didn’t expect it, but I will accept this with great joy.”

The last things on his mind are popularity and awards.

“Honestly I don’t think about these kinds of things at all. I’m concentrating on my matches, on my training and on my preparations.” Irmatov said.