Luke Littler vs Niko Springer Preview & Prediction | 2026 World Matchplay | First Round

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World number one Luke Littler has been running rampant in the big events this year and he opens his World Matchplay defence against debutant German Niko Springer.

Start date/time: 18 July 2026 at 9:00 pm

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports / USA – ESPN

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – ESPN+

Luke Littler vs Niko Springer prediction

Having won every single major tournament he has entered in 2026, Luke Littler comes into the World Matchplay as the clear favourite to defend the title he won last year.

The world number one has perfectly timed his form so far in 2026 so that his game is in optimal shape for the big events, and it is expected to be no different in Blackpool for what is one of the flagship events in the PDC calendar.

Up against the Nuke is a player who has become a more frequent participant in televised events over the past 18 months, although Niko Springer will be making his debut at Winter Gardens this year.

The 26-year-old German does have a European Tour title to his name, and lost narrowly (6-5) to Littler at a Players Championship event last year in the only previous meeting between the pair.

However, this is a completely different environment in front of the TV lights and the big crowd, and one in which Littler usually flourishes. Anything other than a convincing victory for the world champion would be a surprise.

Luke Littler vs Niko Springer tip: Luje Littler to win with -4.5 legs handicap