Ghana: Coach Nii Armah reacts to Debibi’s historic promotion

It was a moment of pure vindication for Isaac Nii Armah as he watched his Debibi United side dismantle Tamale City 3-1 to secure their historic, first-ever ticket to the Ghana Premier League.

For the tactical mastermind behind the Zone 1B champions, the triumph at the Accra Sports Stadium represented far more than a mere promotion; it was the ultimate fulfilment of a career-long ambition.

Speaking in the jubilant aftermath of the victory, Nii Armah made it clear that the top-flight newcomers aren’t simply there to make up the numbers, boldly declaring that the club is built for long-term survival among the elite.

“My dreams have truly come true after successfully qualifying Debibi for the Premier League,” said Isaac Nii Armah. “Debibi United has come to stay. They will compete in the Ghana Premier League for many years to come.”

The result officially finalised the roster of three clubs set to compete in the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season, with Debibi United’s dominant performance on Wednesday sealing the final available slot at the expense of Tamale City FC.

The path to this high-stakes showdown was paved after Tamale City secured the final qualifying position in Zone 1A, while Debibi United finished at the summit of Zone 1B at the conclusion of a gruelling Division One League campaign.

This decisive Zone 1 playoff final, staged at the iconic Accra Sports Stadium, saw Debibi United seize control from the onset, outclassing their opponents to secure a 3-1 victory by the end of regulation time.

The undisputed hero of the afternoon was Debibi United striker Kwadwo Antwi. By netting a sensational hat-trick, Antwi not only spearheaded the club’s historic promotion but also etched his name into the folklore of the elite division of Ghanaian football.

Debibi United secures historic top-flight promotion

“We thank the Almighty for this victory. To score three goals and lead Debibi United into the Ghana Premier League makes me very happy,” Kwadwo Antwi remarked after the match.

“We also want to thank our fans so much. They have supported us faithfully since the very beginning of the season, and their dedication is a major reason why we have been able to achieve this qualification for the Premier League.”

Debibi United now joins Port City FC (Zone 3) and FC AshantiGold ’04 (Zone 2), both of whom had already secured their promotion slots earlier in the campaign.

Conversely, the result was a bitter pill for Tamale City, who missed out on the opportunity to return to the top tier for a second time. Their wait for a comeback continues following their relegation in 2023, which occurred after spending just a single season in the top flight.