Zambia coach Patrick Phiri underlined the importance of his side's African Cup of Nations opener against Sudan on Tuesday. "A winning start at the African Cup of Nations will build the confidence and morale of the team," Phiri told Zambian paper The Post on Friday. "The focus is on the first match. We must get a good result because it is always important to start on a good note." Sudan have struggled in their CAN warm-ups as they produced poor results, including a humiliating 5-2 defeat to Belgian side Gent. "I have a lot of respect for Sudan but I'm confident my charges will reign supreme." Phiri expressed his delight with the way Zambia's preparations have gone prior to Africa's showpiece in Ghana. "Everything is okay. We are working as per schedule and managing well. The spirit in camp is high. The players look confident and focused," he added. The Chipolopolo Boys will play in Group C along with defending champions Egypt, four-time winners Cameroon and Sudan.
