Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, says it's 'painful' the Black Stars missed out on a place at the next Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The draw for the tournament to be staged in Morocco happened in Rabat on Monday, January 27, with all qualifying teams finding out their opposition.

One team who will not be involved in the continental flagship tournament is Ghana, who failed to advance from their qualifying group.

Speaking on Sporty FM earlier on Tuesday, Asante Twum admitted the Black Stars absence for the first time 20 years leaves 'mixed feelings.'

"To miss out of AFCON qualification is a mixed feeling, especially when teams like Botswana are there. It felt very painful," he said.

Asante Twum, however, backed the decision to keep head coach Otto Addo as he revealed Ghanaians were warned about the challenges his appointment could come with.

"Based on results, one can easily conclude Otto Addo shouldn't be there but before his appointment , there was an announcement that there will be tough times."

Having missed out on the 2025 AFCON, Ghana will now turn attention to securing a slot at next year's World Cup with the next set of qualifiers set for March.