Gerwyn Price vs Rob Cross Prediction (European Championship) Odds and Bets 22.10.2026

Gerwyn Price faces Rob Cross at Dortmund’s Westfalenhalle on Thursday 22 October in the opening round of the 2026 PDC European Championship. Both former world champions have plenty to prove, with just six legs needed to progress.

The Iceman arrives after reaching three consecutive televised major finals, while Cross has produced some outstanding scoring performances on the European Tour. Price’s recent results and head-to-head record make him the favourite, but Voltage is a two-time European champion who knows how to handle big occasions. I fancy Price to progress, although Cross has enough firepower to keep things competitive.

Gerwyn Price vs Rob Cross: match preview

Price has enjoyed an impressive run in televised majors, reaching the finals of the World Matchplay, World Series of Darts Finals and World Grand Prix. His latest appearance ended in a 6-4 defeat to Luke Humphries in the World Grand Prix final, despite racing into a three-set lead. However, those performances underline his ability to compete consistently at the highest level.

Cross has been less consistent in major tournaments, although his recent European Tour numbers tell a more encouraging story. At the Swiss Darts Trophy, he averaged 105.95 against Mario Vandenbogaerde and 106.68 in defeat to Jonny Clayton. The players last met at July’s World Matchplay, where Price secured a convincing 11-5 victory.

Recent form and key results

Price has reached three televised major finals since July, demonstrating considerably greater consistency than Cross on the biggest stages. The Welshman also won the European Darts Grand Prix in April, beating Ross Smith 8-6 in the final. His ability to produce high scoring under pressure remains one of his biggest strengths.

Preparation and the main uncertainty

Price competed at the Dutch Darts Championship last weekend, beating Scott Williams before losing to Niels Zonneveld. Cross withdrew from the same tournament for personal reasons, meaning his latest competitive appearance came at the Swiss Darts Trophy.

There is no confirmed injury concern behind Cross’s withdrawal, but his preparation has been less straightforward. The biggest uncertainty is the first-to-six-legs format. One poor scoring visit or a missed double can quickly change the momentum. Cross has won this competition twice, in 2019 and 2021, while Price reached the 2019 final. That experience could become important if the match reaches the deciding legs.

Tactical analysis: can Cross match Price’s scoring power?

Price’s biggest advantage is his ability to maintain a high scoring level throughout important matches. His performances in televised majors demonstrate how dangerous he becomes when his treble hitting and finishing work together. Cross is capable of matching that intensity. His averages above 105 in Basel show that his scoring remains competitive against elite opposition.

However, the latest head-to-head offers an important distinction. Price won 11-5 despite hitting only one more maximum than Cross. His finishing and ability to capitalise on opportunities made the difference. That could prove decisive again in Dortmund.

Cross will need to hold throw consistently and take advantage of any missed doubles. Price, meanwhile, should have enough scoring power to create opportunities to break. I expect both players to enjoy strong spells, but Price’s recent major-tournament consistency makes him the more convincing selection.

Gerwyn Price vs Rob Cross Odds

Price heads into this contest as the favourite, with the market reflecting his strong recent results and impressive record against Cross.

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