skysports-luke-littler-nathan_7386209-1024x576 Littler cruises into European championship quarter-finals as Van Veen suffers shock exit

Screenshot-2026-04-04-204228-1024x172 Littler cruises into European championship quarter-finals as Van Veen suffers shock exit

Littler cruises into European championship quarter-finals as defending champion Van Veen exits

Luke Littler delivered a dominant performance to defeat Nathan Aspinall 10-5 and reach the quarter-finals of the European Championship on Saturday, while defending champion Gian van Veen suffered a surprise exit at the hands of Luke Woodhouse.

World number one Littler produced an outstanding display, averaging 114.47 and coming close to the tournament record of 118.14 set by darts legend Phil Taylor.

The teenager made a blistering start against Aspinall, winning the opening four legs in just 12, 11, 12 and 11 darts to establish a commanding 4-0 advantage, with his average soaring above 130.

Aspinall responded with 10 maximum 180s and fought his way back into the contest, narrowing the deficit to 5-4. However, Littler regained control when it mattered most, pulling away to secure his place in the last eight.

“I felt really good from the off tonight,” Littler said. “Nathan is always there. He’s always going to come back at you, so I couldn’t afford a drop-off.”

The world number one also revealed that he had noticed his impressive averages during the match and used them as motivation to maintain his high standard.

“I’ve had a long time off and past results haven’t gone my way, but hopefully if I do lift the trophy, I can say I’ve not gone anywhere!” he added.

Littler will now face Polish star Krzysztof Ratajski in the quarter-finals after Ratajski produced a determined comeback to defeat Kevin Doets. The Pole recovered from 4-0 and 8-6 down, hitting seven maximums and averaging almost 97 to complete the turnaround.

Woodhouse Stuns Defending Champion Van Veen

Luke Woodhouse continued his impressive run at the tournament by defeating defending champion Van Veen 10-6, following his nine-dart finish earlier in the competition.

Woodhouse produced several outstanding finishes, checking out 114, 117 and 129 against the Dutchman to book his place in the quarter-finals.

The result leaves Ross Smith as the only former European Championship winner remaining in the draw. Smith will now face Woodhouse in what promises to be a compelling last-eight encounter.

“Being in the quarter-finals is huge,” Woodhouse said.

“When someone of Gian’s quality is not at it, you’ve got to pounce on them and make sure you don’t let them back into the game.”

Woodhouse praised his own consistency but acknowledged that another difficult challenge awaits.

“I was very steady, and I took my chances, but I have another big game tomorrow,” he added.

Meanwhile, Smith kept his hopes of winning a second European Championship title alive with a 10-7 victory over Damon Heta. The top seed averaged 112 and raced into a five-leg lead before overcoming difficulties on the doubles to seal the win.

Schindler Delights Home Crowd as Clayton Survives Rock Fightback

German number one Martin Schindler thrilled the Dortmund crowd with a convincing 10-4 victory over Jermaine Wattimena, earning a quarter-final meeting with Jonny Clayton.

Roared on by more than 7,000 supporters at the Westfalenhalle, Schindler capitalised on his opportunities and converted 53% of his attempts at doubles to progress comfortably.

Clayton, meanwhile, had to work considerably harder to overcome Josh Rock, eventually securing a 10-8 win.

The Welshman appeared to be in control at 9-6 before Rock threatened a late comeback. Clayton held his nerve, however, sealing the match with a spectacular 121 checkout finished on the bullseye.

Price and Bunting Set Up Quarter-Final Clash

Gerwyn Price and Stephen Bunting also advanced to the last eight with convincing victories.

Price defeated Cameron Menzies 10-4, while Bunting produced an equally impressive performance to beat Kim Huybrechts 10-3.

Their victories set up a quarter-final showdown between two of the sport’s established names, with both players aiming to maintain their momentum as the competition approaches its decisive stages.

European Championship Reaches Final Day

The European Championship concludes at the Westfalenhalle in Dortmund on Sunday, with the remaining eight players competing for the £150,000 first prize.

The quarter-finals will take place during the afternoon session, followed by the semi-finals and final from 19:00 CET.

With Littler in outstanding scoring form, Woodhouse enjoying a strong run and several experienced contenders still in contention, the final day promises an exciting conclusion to the tournament.