Tuesday, May 6, 2025
spot_img
HomeFootballMichael Olunga Magic Lifts Al Duhail into Quarter-Finals with Style

Michael Olunga Magic Lifts Al Duhail into Quarter-Finals with Style

Michael Olunga is at it again — scoring goals, winning matches, and proving why he’s one of the deadliest strikers in Asia. On Monday, 5 May, the Kenyan forward bagged a sensational first-half brace to guide Al Duhail to a commanding 4-2 win over Al Sailiya and into the Emir Cup quarter-finals.

The match, held at Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha, saw Michael Olunga take center stage once more. His two quick goals added to strikes by teammates Benjamin Bourigeaud and Karim Boudiaf, ensuring Al Duhail had the game wrapped up by halftime.

The game started with early Al Duhail pressure, and it didn’t take long for them to break the deadlock. French midfielder Bourigeaud calmly converted a penalty in the 27th minute to make it 1-0. Just three minutes later, Boudiaf doubled the lead with a powerful strike from outside the box.

But then came the moment the fans had been waiting for — Michael Olunga stepped up and delivered.

He struck in the 37th minute, reacting first to a loose ball in the box and smashing it past the goalkeeper. Just five minutes later, he was at it again, this time with a slick finish after a clever through-ball split the defence. That took the score to 4-0 in just 42 minutes — and the crowd went wild.

For Michael Olunga, it wasn’t just another brace. It was a statement. A reminder that he’s not done yet. A message that Al Duhail still have a weapon that can deliver titles.

Second-Half Resistance

Although Al Duhail relaxed slightly in the second half, the game never looked out of their hands. Al Sailiya managed to get two goals back, both through Algerian striker Mohamed Benyettou — one in the 58th minute and another from the penalty spot in the 79th.

Still, the damage had already been done. Michael Olunga’s first-half brilliance had already ensured a comfortable cushion.

After the match, the Kenyan forward was named Man of the Match, and he proudly shared the moment on social media. In a post written in a mix of English and Swahili, he wrote:

“Round of 16 imekuwa fiti. Bao ni mbili. Alafu za cabbage pia kwa best player. Mungu mwema.”

Translated: “Round of 16 went well. Two goals and some cabbage (money) for best player. God is good.”

RECOMMENDED:

Chasing Silverware

This performance couldn’t have come at a better time for Michael Olunga and Al Duhail. The team finished second in the Qatar Stars League, just two points behind fierce rivals Al Sadd.

Now, the Emir Cup and the Qatar Cup offer them a golden chance to grab silverware before the season ends — and Michael Olunga is clearly in red-hot form to make that happen.

The win over Al Sailiya means Al Duhail now advance to face tougher opposition in the quarter-finals, but with Michael Olunga leading the line, fans have every reason to be optimistic.

So far this season, Michael Olunga has scored 15 goals in all competitions, with 12 of them coming in league action. That consistency has made him not just a fan favorite, but also one of the most feared strikers in Qatar.

Up next for Michael Olunga and Al Duhail is a big one — a Qatar Cup final clash with league champions Al Sadd on Saturday, 10 May. The match will be held at the 15,000-seater Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha, kicking off at 7:00 PM (EAT).

It’s a rematch that many are eagerly anticipating. Al Sadd might have clinched the league, but Michael Olunga will be looking to settle scores and help Al Duhail end the season on a high.

If his performance against Al Sailiya is anything to go by, Michael Olunga is more than ready for the challenge.

More Than a Striker

Beyond the goals and the glory, Michael Olunga continues to represent Kenya on the world stage with pride. His work ethic, leadership, and humble attitude have made him a role model — not just for aspiring footballers back home, but for anyone chasing their dreams.

In a time when many African stars fade away after leaving Europe, Michael Olunga is still shining bright in Qatar — and he’s hungry for more.

Faith Onyango
Faith Onyangohttp://jambobet.co.ke
Sports journalist with a focus on football. Creating engaging content for Jambobet, covering everything from match previews & analysis to player profiles & transfer news
RELATED ARTICLES

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Most Popular

Recent Comments