Michael Olunga scored two late goals to lead his Al-Duhail side into the AFC Champions League semi-final. The Kenyan forward bagged a couple of goals in space of just eight minutes to give his team a 2-0 lead over Saudi club Al-Shabab and effectively win the game single-handedly.Although the Saudis pulled one back in the stoppage time, there was no keeping the Hernan Crespo-managed club out of the final four in Asia’s premium competition.هدف أولونغا @OgadaOlunga الأول في مرمى الشباب ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/BZMBXk68Ka— نادي الدحيل ALDUHAIL (@DuhailSC) February 23, 2023 It was a nervous game at the Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, and the home side left it late, but Olunga made sure the Qatar Stars League’s table-topping team reached the next round.Al-Shabab’s defence has been their strongest point up to tonight, but a firm header and a tidy finish from the Kenyan sealed their fate.هدف أولونغا @OgadaOlunga الثاني في مرمى الشباب ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/iLTonPftfa— نادي الدحيل ALDUHAIL (@DuhailSC) February 23, 2023 This is the first time Al-Duhail has reached the AFCCL semis. In the two most recent involvements in the competition, they bowed out at the group stage, but this could be their season. Olunga’s team is now within one match of meeting Urawa Red Diamonds of Japan, who sealed their place in the final from the East zone last August.As for Michael Olunga, it’s difficult not to pose the question: is his talent wasted at this level? Surely he could cut it in a competition more reputable than this. We can hope!AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUEPlay-offsThursdayAl-Duhail – Al Shabab 2-1 (0-0)/Olunga 77, 85 – Al Rubaie 90+3/Foolad -Al-Hilal (in progress)
