Zambia coach Honour Janza has said that his side's 1-1 draw with Congo DR will serve as a stepping stone for the country as they look to progress through the Africa Cup of Nations.

The Copper Bullets had originally led in the game thanks to an opener from Given Singuluma, but Congo were able to salvage a point in Group B courtesy of Yannick Bolasie in the second half.

"It was most important that we did not lose this match because opening games are often very tricky," Janza told the press after the game.

"The early goal was good for us because if Congo DR had scored first, it would have been very difficult for us to come back.

"It was a tough game, but we learnt a few things and this will be a stepping stone for us in this competition."

Zambia will next be in action when they take on Tunisia on Thursday.