James Wade has defeated Luke Littler in a dramatic second-round match at the European Championship, with a score of 10-7. This loss now postpones Littler’s ambition to claim the world number one ranking.
Match Overview
The match took place in Dortmund, where Wade exhibited skillful play. The encounter was a nail-biter, with both players showcasing their talents. Eventually, Wade’s experience and precision became the deciding factors in the match.
Key Match Events
- Wade initially led 2-0 before Littler responded.
- The game was tied at 6-6 after Littler fought back.
- Wade capitalized on a missed double 10 by Littler.
- Wade secured the victory with finishes of 73 and 108.
Littler’s World Number One Ambition
At just 18 years old, Littler had the opportunity to ascend to the top of the PDC Order of Merit. A victory in Dortmund would have placed him above fellow Englishman Luke Humphries. However, with this defeat, his ambitions are on hold.
Performance Statistics
| Player | Averages | 180s | Checkout Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| James Wade | 97.75 | 3 | 45.45% |
| Luke Littler | 97.75 | 8 | 33.33% |
Despite both players averaging 97.75, Wade’s superior checkout rate and fewer missed opportunities were decisive. Littler’s eight 180s showcased his scoring ability, yet it wasn’t enough for success.
Upcoming Events
The European Championship concludes this Sunday with key quarter-finals in the afternoon, followed by the semi-finals and finals in the evening. In addition, the following tournaments are scheduled:
- Grand Slam of Darts: November 8-16
- Players Championship Finals: November 21-23
The World Championship is set to commence on December 11, adding further pressure on players to perform well in the upcoming events.
