The Leopards, who won the inaugural tournament in 2009, secured the title with two goals from Mechak Elia and a late strike from Jonathan Bolingi.

Mali started the brighter of the two sides with Mamadou Coulibaly going close on a couple of occasions in the early stages. 

But it was their opponents who broke the deadlock on 29 minutes as Elia’s superb angled shot gave Djigui Diarra no chance in the Mali goal. 

Leading 1-0 at half-time, the Democratic Republic of Congo doubled their advantage in the 61st minute when Elia dribbled past Diarra and placed the ball into a gaping goal.

Lassana Samaka missed a glorious chance 10 minutes later as Mali tried to force their way back into the match, and it wasn't long before Bolingi put the result beyond doubt to the delight of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s huge support.

Victory marks another significant triumph for coach Florent Ibengé, who guided the senior Democratic Republic of Congo side to third place at last year's Africa Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea.

Earlier in the third place play-off, Ivory Coast overcame Guinea 2-1 in a match which saw their goalkeeper Abdoul Cisse save two penalties.

Guinea missed the opportunity to take the lead in the 27th minute when Ibrahima Sankhon's spot-kick was thwarted by Cisse.

Four minutes later, Ivory Coast were gifted the opener with an own goal from Mohamed Youla and Guinea soon found themselves 2-0 behind as Badie Gbagnon got his name on the scoresheet.

Alseny Camara stepped up to take another penalty for Guinea in the second half, only to see Cisse produce heroics once more.

They did manage to pull one back five minutes from time though Aboubacar Leo Camara, but Ivory Coast held out for the win.

The tournament differs from the more elite Africa Cup of Nations, as only players who represent clubs on the continent are allowed to take part.

The 2018 edition is due to take place in Kenya.