President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has consoled the Black Starlets following their inability to win the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations 2017 tournament in Gabon.

He encouraged the team to look forward to the World Cup which kicks off from October 6 - 28, 2017 in India.

“Better luck next time to the Starlets. We are proud of you. Now, unto the world championships. Make Ghana proud,” Mr Akufo-Addo said in a tweet.

The Black Starlets were unable to lift the 2017 AFCON U-17 trophy after suffering a narrow 0-1 defeat to defending champions Mali in the final played on Sunday, 28 May.

The only goal of the game came in the 22nd minute after defender Gideon Otu fouled Malian attacker Kone in the box, leading to a penalty.

Goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim, who had not conceded in the tournament until the final, saved the initial kick from Faisal Osman, but Mamadou Samake slotted home the rebound.

Ghana had their own share of opportunities but could not find the back of the net, making Mali the winners at the end of 90 minutes.

The Starlets have not won the U-17 AFCON since they last won it in 1999.