Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant is aiming for a strong opening performance when Zambia takes on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in their opening fixture of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday. Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Grant acknowledged the DRC's strengths but expressed confidence in his own team's preparation. "We are in a very tough group and our first opponents Congo are a very good team," he said, "but our target is also to show a good team and continue with our progress in the last year that we did." The former Ghana coach, who reached the final of the competition with the Black Stars in 2015, stressed the importance of a strong start despite the tournament's long format. "The game is important, the tournament will be important, nothing will be decided after the first game, but it is important to open the tournament in the best way we can," he stated. Despite lacking in Africa Cup of Nations experience – only veterans Stoppila Sunzu and skipper Lubambo Musonda have competed in the tournament before – Grant believes his team possesses a strong balance and unity. "We have a very balanced team that is what we wanted to do, and we try to play as a team which is our strength," he explained. Zambia, drawn in Group F alongside Morocco, Tanzania, and the DRC, face a challenging path to continental glory. However, Grant's confidence stems from the progress made since his appointment in 2022, which included securing qualification for the tournament after three consecutive misses. The youthful Chipolopolo Boys have a chance to showcase their hunger for success on Wednesday night as they take on the DRC. Kick-off is set for 22:00 Zambian time.