Olunga shines as North African duo strike in Qatari league season-opening draw

Al Arabi and Al Wakrah opened their 2025-2026 Doha Bank Stars League (Qatari League) campaigns with a 2-2 draw at Al Thumama Stadium on Friday.

Former Al Duhail striker Michael Olunga gave Al Arabi the perfect start, opening the scoring in the 15th minute. However, Al Wakrah responded swiftly through Moroccan midfielder Amine Zouhzouh, who equalized just three minutes later.

A turning point in the first half came in the 35th minute when Egyptian international Hamdi Fathi conceded a penalty after pushing an Al Arabi player inside the box.

Spanish midfielder Pablo Sarabia, one of Al Arabi’s summer signings, stepped up to convert the spot-kick in the 38th minute, restoring the lead for the home side at 2-1.

Al Wakrah fought back after the break, with Algerian substitute Redouane Berkane — who replaced Zouhzouh in the 46th minute — finding the net in the 68th minute to make it 2-2.

Michael Olunga’s display and attacking threat earned him the Player of the Match award.