Xiao Guodong vs Zhou Yuelong Preview & Prediction | 2026 World Snooker Championship | First Round

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Two Chinese talents go toe-to-toe in the first round of the World Snooker Championship as Xiao Guodong faces Zhou Yuelong.

Kick-off date/time:

How to watch on TV: UK – BBC & TNT Sports / USA – Not televised

How to watch online: UK – BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport website & HBO Max / USA – Cannot be streamed

Tickets: Visit here for the latest ticket information

Xiao Guodong vs Zhou Yuelong prediction

Seeded ninth for this year's World Championship, Xiao Guodong is making his fifth appearance in Sheffield, and second in succession after reaching the second round last year, where he narrowly lost to Crucible great John Higgins.

The 37-year-old defended his Wuhan Open crown back in August, and more recently reached the semi-finals of the World Grand Prix in February.

Compatriot Zhou Yuelong eased through qualifying, dropping just seven frames in victories over Robbie McGuigan and Michael Holt, but that was little surprise after what has been an excellent season for the 28-year-old.

A finalist at the English Open last September, Yuelong has also reached semi-finals at the Northern Ireland Open and the World Grand Prix this season.

Both players have reason to be confident here, and this could be one of the closer first-round matches. With that in mind, over 16.5 frames is worth a look.

Xiao Guodong vs Zhou Yuelong tip: Over 16.5 frames