Aiming for a third place finish in the gold medal tally at the Athens Olympics, the Chinese sports delegation is confident to win its first gold on the first day that produces medals.

"I believe China will reap its first gold here in Athens on Saturday," said Xiao Tian, deputy chef de mission and secretary general of the Chinese delegation at a press conference Wednesday in Athens.

The Athens Olympics will officially open on Friday with the first gold to be decided on Saturday.

"(On Saturday) There are five events in the women's pistol shooting, women's weightlifting and diving that Chinese athletes have chances for gold, the results will depend on the players' performance," Xiao said.

"But I am sure China can secure at least one gold on Saturday."

China, who collected 28 golds, 16 silvers and 15 bronzes at the Sydney Olympics four years ago, is expected to win over 20 golds at Athens.