The Democratic Republic of Congo have won the African Nations Championship (CHAN) after beating Mali 3-0 in the final in Rwanda on Sunday.
DR Congo also becomes the first country to win the tournament twice after their triumph at the inaugural edition in 2009.
The Leopards, coached by Florent Ibenge, secured the title with two goals from the impressive Mechak Elia and a late Jonathan Bolingi strike.
At a packed Amohoro Stadium in Kigali, DR Congo enjoyed huge support from the crowd and it was evident in their display.
Elia broke the deadlock one minute before the half hour mark to put the Makossa kings in front.
His long-range, angled shot gave Mali keeper Djigui Diarra no chance, and set Ibenge’s side up nicely going into the break.
Elia grabbed his second in the 61st minute with a fine solo effort before Bolingi killed the game off with the third.
Earlier, Cote d’Ivoire took the bronze medal, beating Guinea 2-1 in an eventful third place play-off match.
Ivorian keeper Abdoul Cisse played a key part in the Elephants’ win, saving two penalties.
Mohamed Youla scored an own goal in the 31st minute before Badie Gbagnon doubled the Elephants lead three minutes later.
Aboubacar Leo Camara did pull one back for Guinea five minutes from time, but it wasn’t enough for the West Africans to stage a shock comeback.
