2016 African Nations Championship Final

DR Congo enjoyed huge support from the crowd although it was Mali who started with more purpose with Mamadou Coulibaly going close twice with a couple of early shots. But it was an exquisite individual strike from Meschak Elia which broke the deadlock on 29 minutes, to give DR Congo the lead. His long-range, angled shot gave Mali keeper Djigui Diarra no chance, and set Ibenge's side up nicely going into the break. Elia again proved to be too much for Mali in the second half, scoring his second goal on 61 minutes.[1] He dribbled past Diarra, placing the ball into an empty net. That goal sparked mass celebrations in the stands amongst the hoards of DR Congo fans. Mali tried to get back into the match, but failed to make the most of their opportunities. Lassana Samaka missed a good chance for Mali ten minutes later, with the game put beyond doubt when Jonathan Bolingi added a third for DR Congo 18 minutes from time. [10] Meschak Elia was given a standing ovation when he was substituted on 86 minutes, and the crowd sang out coach Florent Ibenge's name. DR Congo’s clean sheet on the night made it the second time they lifted the CHAN trophy without conceding a goal in the final.[2]