Burkina Faso great Aristide Bance scored the only goal of the game as Ivorian giants ASEC Mimosas beat second-placed Williamsville Athletic Club 1-0 in Bouake on Saturday to win their first title since 2010.
The striker struck from the spot in the 78th minute, when WAC defender Mala Doueugui was adjudged to have intercepted Willy Braciano's pass with his hand.
The referee didn't hesitate before awarding the penalty, and Bance slotted past El Hadj Dante to give ASEC the advantage in an edgy contest.
There was little to separate the two sides at the Stade de la Paix during a tense first 45 minutes, although ASEC's physical dominance and superior fitness told after the break.
They ultimately didn't add to their tally, but the Black and Yellows eased to victory after their hosts were reduced to 10 men following the dismissal of Yao Kouame, who was sent for an early bath after striking Dosso Fabius.
The win moved ASEC up to 45 points -- four ahead of nearest rivals WAC -- and secured their 25th domestic crown with one game still to play.
The match-winning display represented another memorable episode in Bance's storied career. The forward netted two valuable goals as Burkina Fast finished third at the Africa Cup of Nations, while he also bagged two as the Stallions beat Angola 3-1 on the opening weekend of Afcon 2019 qualifying earlier this month.
The 32-year-old has enjoyed a nomadic career since emerging at another Ivorian side, Stade d'Abidjan, in 2000.
He's played in Belgium, Germany, the UAE, Turkey and Finland among various other footballing outposts, featuring for clubs such as HJK Helsinki, Mainz and Augsburg.
