Michael van Gerwen opens World Matchplay 2026 against Andrew Gilding: expert tip revealed

Michael van Gerwen kicks off his World Matchplay 2026 campaign in Blackpool on Friday night against Andrew Gilding.

What’s at stake for Michael van Gerwen?

Van Gerwen, chasing a fourth Matchplay crown, has already pocketed two World Series titles and a Players Championship crown this year. Yet his biggest stage form remains inconsistent. The Dutchman’s three Matchplay wins came between 2015 and 2017, and he’s been runner-up twice since. A quarter-final exit in 2025 still stings, so a strong start against Gilding matters.

Why Andrew Gilding could spoil the party

Gilding has reached the Winter Gardens quarter-finals in each of the past two years. In June he beat Van Gerwen on the European Tour in Bratislava: their first meeting since Gilding’s run to the 2024 last eight ended when Van Gerwen stopped him. Gilding’s darting is sharp when he’s on song, and Blackpool crowds love an underdog.

Expert prediction and betting tip

Our analysts rate the Over 16.5 legs market the smart play. The pair have averaged 17.5 legs per match in their last five clashes, and Gilding’s recent uptick suggests he can keep the legs flowing. Van Gerwen’s title pedigree keeps him in every accumulator, but Gilding’s head-to-head edge can’t be ignored.

How to watch the first-round clash

UK viewers tune in to Sky Sports Arena at 19:00 BST on Friday 18 July. US fans can stream the match live on ESPN+ from 14:00 ET. Both platforms offer full coverage, including alternate feeds and expert commentary.