The Black Stars, a classic title contender for the title, experienced a shocking elimination in the previous edition when they failed to advance from the group stage.

This disappointment still lingers for the four-time African champions.

"I am fully aware of the disappointment from Ghana's last Cup of Nations tournament, where they were unexpectedly eliminated in the first round after a surprising loss to the Comoros," Hughton told AFP on Monday.

"However, our focus is on the future, not dwelling on the past. Our primary ambition in Ivory Coast is to surpass the first round," added the coach.

Ghana have been placed in Group B alongside Egypt, Mozambique, and Cape Verde.

The team to end their preparations for the Nations Cup with a friendly against Namibia on Monday before heading to Cote d’Ivoire. 

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