First Round Preview: 2026 European Darts Championship Matches
The 2026 European Darts Championship kicks off in Dortmund, with 32 top players set to battle. Here’s a look at the first round matchups and predictions.
The anticipation for the 2026 European Darts Championship is building as 32 of the world's elite darts players are set to compete in Dortmund over the course of four exciting days.
This prestigious tournament kicks off with some thrilling first-round matchups on Thursday and Friday evenings. Let’s examine the key matches and make our predictions.
Key Matchups and Predictions
Here are our predictions for the first-round matches, focusing on the strengths and potential of each player.
Luke Woodhouse vs. Dirk van Duijvenbode
Predicted Winner: Dirk van Duijvenbode, 6-4
This match promises to be closely contested, as both players enter with similar credentials. Although Woodhouse can boast an European Tour title this year, van Duijvenbode's form has shown flashes of brilliance that could propel him to victory.
Danny Noppert vs. Stephen Bunting
Predicted Winner: Stephen Bunting, 6-4
While Noppert has consistently performed better on the European Tour, Bunting's recent semifinal run in the Netherlands might be the spark he needs to excel in this match, making him a formidable opponent despite Noppert’s strong record this year.
Niels Zonneveld vs. Cameron Menzies
Predicted Winner: Niels Zonneveld, 6-3
Zonneveld enters the match following a significant victory with a major title last weekend. His experience and current form should prove too strong for Menzies, who is still working on finding his consistency.
Gerwyn Price vs. Rob Cross
Predicted Winner: Gerwyn Price, 6-3
Given Price's history in major tournaments post-World Championship, he is favored to continue his impressive run against Cross, despite their previous match being relatively close. Price's consistency gives him the edge here.
James Wade vs. Damon Heta
Predicted Winner: Damon Heta, 6-5
This matchup is expected to be highly competitive. Heta has been showing promising results in recent tournaments, while Wade, coming off a title win, is still in a good spot. It could come down to the wire!
Kim Huybrechts vs. Ryan Searle
Predicted Winner: Ryan Searle, 6-4
With Huybrechts stepping in as a late replacement, he may find it challenging to compete at his best level against Searle, who has shown solid form over the season and now has improved odds following changes in the lineup.
Other Exciting Matches
- Gian van Veen vs. Andrew Gilding: Predicting a 6-3 win for van Veen, who is motivated to defend his title.
- Ross Smith vs. Karel Sedlacek: Smith, the top-ranked player on the European Tour, is anticipated to win 6-3.
- Ryan Joyce vs. Jermaine Wattimena: Wattimena, coming in with solid Pro Tour experience, is expected to edge this match 6-4.
- Krzysztof Ratajski vs. Dave Chisnall: A close contest with Chisnall prevailing 6-4 based on recent form.
- Nathan Aspinall vs. Cristo Reyes: Aspinall is predicted to win 6-4 in what could be a thrilling match.
- Jonny Clayton vs. Niko Springer: Clayton, coming off a recent title, should win this matchup, perhaps 6-4.
- Luke Littler vs. William O'Connor: With a strong start to the season, Littler may win 6-3.
- Wessel Nijman vs. Martin Schindler: Nijman is favored to win 6-3, given his explosive style.
- Kevin Doets vs. Michael van Gerwen: Doets might surprise and take this match 6-5, showcasing his improvement this season.
- Josh Rock vs. Chris Dobey: Expect Rock to win comfortably 6-3 if he maintains his current form.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 European Darts Championship will certainly deliver an array of thrilling performances as players battle for their spot in the later stages of the tournament. Be sure to catch all the action as it unfolds!