Olunga set for another start as he returns to full fitness weeks before Cameroon clash

Michael Olunga is set to lead Al Duhail as they aim to maintain their perfect league run following his injury return.

Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga is set to lead Al Duhail's frontline in a high-stakes encounter against arch-rivals Al Sadd as the Qatari Stars League (QSL) title contenders face off this Friday.

The 30-year-old striker, who recently returned from injury, will be hoping to continue his impressive form as Al Duhail aim to maintain their perfect record in the league.

Olunga featured for 55 minutes in last weekend's 2-0 victory over Al Wakrah,marking his return to action after missing several crucial matches, including two key 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Namibia.

His comeback performance was eventful, as he received a yellow card in the 19th minute and narrowly avoided a red card minutes later, with VAR intervening to overturn the decision.

Al Duhail head coach Christophe Galtier will be counting on the veteran striker's firepower alongside Almoez Ali and Edmilson Junior as they take on reigning champions Al Sadd at the Khalifa International Stadium.

Al Duhail have been in dominant form this season, racking up four consecutive wins, scoring 12 goals while conceding just one.

Despite their excellent start, Galtier is well aware of the challenge Al Sadd pose.

"We know the importance of this match and the quality of our opponents," Galtier said in a pre-match press conference.

"Al Sadd are a strong side with a lot of experience, but we are confident in our ability to maintain our momentum and fight for the title."

Al Sadd, under the guidance of coach Felix Sanchez, have had a mixed start to their campaign. With two wins and two losses, the Wolves are currently in third place, four points behind second-placed Al Ahli.

However, their spirits will be lifted by a solid 1-1 draw against UAE’s Al Ain in their opening AFC Champions League Elite game last week.

Sánchez will rely heavily on Spanish forward Rafa Mujica, who is the current top scorer in the league with five goals, and Akram Afif, a key playmaker in their attack.

The coach acknowledged the significance of the match but remained optimistic about his team’s chances.

"We’ve had some ups and downs, but we are determined to bounce back in the league. Al Duhail are a tough opponent, but we have the quality to compete and win," Sánchez said.

Al Sadd will, however, be without midfielder Mohammed Waad, who is suspended after receiving a red card in their recent loss to Umm Salal.

This could be a crucial absence for the champions as they look to tighten their defense against Al Duhail’s formidable attack.

For Olunga, this match will be another opportunity to prove his fitness and form as he prepares for Kenya's upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Cameroon on October 7.

The crucial fixture will be played at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala with Olunga expected to lead the line for the Harambee Stars once again.