Zambia coach Avram Grant insists his focus has swiftly turned to their clash against Tanzania following a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their 2023 Cup of Nations opener.
The Chipolopolo surrendered the lead in San Pedro as DR Congo’s Yoane Wissa cancelled out Kings Kangwa’s opener.
But Grant is wasting no time dwelling on the result and is already plotting victory in their next Group F outing, against Tanzania.
“Every game is different and the next one will be different from this one,” Grant told reporters post-match. “We will put in place another tactic to seek victory against Tanzania.”
The Israeli manager conceded DR Congo deserved a share of the spoils after fighting back before half-time.
“It was a difficult match for both teams but DR Congo were much better than us,” admitted Grant.
“We moved the ball well but it was difficult for our attackers against big, strong defenders.”
After a credible draw with one of the tournament favourites, Grant’s pragmatic Zambia now target three points against Tanzania on Tuesday.
On the evidence of this resilient display, the 2012 winners have the tools to progress from the group stage.
Meanwhile, DR Congo coach Sébastien Desabre was left frustrated by the draw in San Pedro.
“I regret that my attackers were not able to put the ball in the net more than once with all the chances we had. We were playing well, enterprising, we offered great football but unfortunately, we regret all our missed opportunities,” said the Leopards coach.
Desabre believes his team was the best on the pitch and that they countered the Zambian team well.
“We knew the speed of their attackers. We did everything we could to cut off their passing lines and it worked. But once again, I am satisfied with my team but not with the result.”
With two more Group F matches to play, Desabre said: “We will recover well. We will still play as well as we did this evening. It wasn’t a final. But there are still two finals remaining and the ambition is to win both. Above all, I hope that my attackers will be more effective.”
