The Masters quarter-finals are set to commence on Thursday, featuring two highly anticipated matches. The events are taking place at the iconic Alexandra Palace, known for its rich snooker history.
Match Previews and Betting Tips for the Masters Quarter-Finals
John Higgins vs. Zhao Xintong
John Higgins is poised to clash with world champion Zhao Xintong. Higgins has shown remarkable longevity, celebrating 26 consecutive appearances over two decades. His last significant triumph came when he defeated Ronnie O’Sullivan for a Masters title, yet he has only a modest record at Alexandra Palace.
In the previous round, Higgins ended a streak of three first-round exits by defeating Barry Hawkins. He displayed exceptional skill, scoring six breaks over fifty points. His impressive long potting will be crucial in this high-stakes match against Xintong, who recently traveled to the tournament and showcased his potential despite some errors in his last match.
Current seasonal winning percentages support Higgins at 67.6% and Xintong at 65.6%. Notably, Higgins leads their head-to-head encounters with a record of 7-4. However, Xintong is the favorite at 4/7 odds. Higgins offers significant value at 6/4, considering the competitive nature of this best-of-11 frame match.
Judd Trump vs. Mark Allen
The showdown between Judd Trump and Mark Allen promises excitement for snooker enthusiasts. Trump, the world number one, has been in formidable form, contributing significantly to the total centuries scored in the tournament. He clinched a decisive victory against Ding Junhui in the previous round, showcasing his skills and determination.
Mark Allen brings a steady approach to the game, having surpassed a 70% win rate this season. His recent match against Mark Williams was marked by strategic play. Even though it began slowly, Allen found his rhythm, allowing him to claim victory.
The head-to-head record favors Allen, 19-15. Given the players’ histories and current performances, betting on over 9.5 frames at odds of 21/20 appears appealing. This match promises to be closely contested, making it an intriguing option for bettors.
Conclusion and Betting Recommendations
- 1pt on John Higgins to defeat Zhao Xintong at odds of 6/4.
- 1pt on over 9.5 frames in the Judd Trump vs. Mark Allen match at odds of 21/20.
This year’s Masters has seen a few one-sided matches despite the high caliber of players. The forgiving conditions might continue to influence the results as we move into the quarter-finals.
