Football’s controlling body FIFA on Saturday announced that the 32-year-old Uzbek referee would be in charge of Friday’s opening game between Mexico and the hosts South Africa.

"I treat every match like any other. It makes no difference whether it is an under-17 game, an under-20 game or the opening match of the World Cup.

"Because of that my preparations will be the same as if it was any other match," he said at a referees’ media day in Pretoria.

Irmatov, who last year officiated at the under-17 World Cup finals in Nigeria said he expected the tournament in Africa to be a fantastic affair.

"I am expecting an African atmosphere with lots of noise from the crowds. I am really looking forward to being at games," he said.