Chris Dobey vs Alexander Merkx Preview & Prediction | 2024-25 PDC World Darts Championship | Second Round

Click here to see the walk-on songs for all the top players at this year’s World Championship!

There is a clear gulf in class here as back-to-back quarter-finalist Chris Dobey takes on Alexander Merkx, who came through a low-quality first-round encounter with Stephen Burton on Friday.

Start date/time: Saturday 21st December, 2024, UK – not before 3:45pm / US ET – not before 10:45am / US PT – not before 7:45am

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports / US – DAZN

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / US – DAZN

Chris Dobey vs Alexander Merkx Prediction

Alexandra Palace is clearly one of 15th seed Chris Dobey’s favourite venues as he has reached the quarter-finals in his previous two appearances at the PDC World Darts Championship and has reached at least the third round in his last six entries.

Although ‘Hollywood’ has suffered some early exits in televised tournaments in 2024, he did reach the last eight at the World Series of Darts Finals in September and won three floor events throughout the year, reaching five finals in total as he topped the Players Championship Order of Merit.

It was thanks to the PDC Development Tour Order of Merit that Alexander Merkx reached his first PDC World Championship and he claimed a 3-0 victory over Stephen Burton in the first round on Friday afternoon. It was a match that was short of quality though, with both players averaging under 80 as they struggled under the spotlight.

This should be a routine win for Dobey, who is more comfortable than most at this tournament. It’s difficult to see Hollywood dropping a set here, especially if Mekx doesn’t significantly raise his level from Friday's performance. 

Chris Dobey vs Alexander Merkx Tip: Chris Dobey to win 3-0