QNB Stars League leaders Al Duhail bounced back brilliantly after being in deficit by a goal to beat hosts Al Wahda 3-2 in Group B of the AFC Champions League at the Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Monday.

Al Duhail thus recorded their second victory. The Red Knights had defeated Iran’s Zob Ahan 3-1 in their opener in Doha.

The home side had an early opportunity to take the lead when they were awarded a penalty after Al Duhail defender Sultan Al Brake fouled Mourad Batna in the box two minutes from the start. Argentinian striker Sebastian Tagliabue stepped up and made no mistake from the spot to put Al Wahda in front.

Al Duhail went on the offensive in search of an equaliser, but had to wait until the 57th minute for their efforts to be rewarded when Moroccan forward Youssef El Arabi swept home a Youssef Msakni pass from six yards out.

A series of chances followed for the Qatari side and they duly took the lead 15 minutes from time when a deflected ball fell at the feet of Karim Boudiaf who slotted home his third goal of the tournament.

Five minutes later, Al Wahda’s woes were compounded when El Arabi headed home his second of the night and Al Duhail’s third.

There was a late consolation goal for the hosts deep into added time, when Batna dispatched another penalty.

Al Duhail top Group B with six points, while Al Wahda are yet to open their account.