2026 World Matchplay of Darts quarterfinals predictions and previews

2026 World Matchplay of Darts quarterfinals predictions and previews originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

>After an entertaining opening two rounds in Blackpool, we have reached the quarterfinal round, where the format gets even longer.

>Four exciting matches will be played across Thursday and Friday, so let's take a look at what to expect in each contest.

2026 World Matchplay of Darts quarterfinals predictionsHere are my predictions for the quarterfinals.

>MORE: 2026 World Matchplay of Darts: Draw, schedule, prize money and format explained

Dirk van Duijvenbode vs. (12) Gary AndersonWinner: Gary Anderson, 16-12

>DvD has produced steady darts in his opening two matches, but the story of those matches has been his ability to pull through and win games in tiebreakers.

>He's already taken down a former winner of this event (Michael van Gerwen) this week, and he'll have the chance to do it again against Gary Anderson.

>This match has the chance to have a lot of scoring power, but I believe the increased format in this round will favor Gary Anderson, who has been just as good as DvD in this tournament so far.

(1) Luke Littler vs. (8) Josh RockWinner: Luke Littler, 16-10

>We might not get quite the firepower in this match that we saw when they played each other in the semifinals last year, but these two always seem to put on a show when they share the oche.

>Littler looks unstoppable at the moment, and Rock didn't have the best performances in the first or second round, so it would be foolish to not pick Littler here.

>Rock shouldn't get completely embarrassed though, as he'll want to win this match just as much as Littler does.

(15) Ross Smith vs (7) Gerwyn PriceWinner: Gerwyn Price, 16-13

>Gerwyn Price had a much more encouraging performance against Rob Cross, and is on a positive trajectory, as he prepares for a match against Ross Smith.

>Unfortunately, we didn't get to see Ross Smith's game against Cameron Menzies pan out, as Menzies had to withdraw early on due to falling ill on stage.

>Despite that, we should still expect to see Ross Smith play his role in what could be a very quality contest, as two players will be fighting for a desired spot in the semifinals.

(3) Gian van Veen vs. TBD*This section will be updated at the conclusion of Ryan Searle/James Wade's match

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