Snooker
Masters Snooker Quarter-Finals Predictions and Odds
The Masters moves into the quarter-final stage with eight players left and very little margin for error. With longer matches and rising pressure, this is often where experience, match management and tactical discipline come to the fore.
Let’s look at the betting odds for the quarter final matchups.
John Higgins (11/8) v Zhao Xintong (4/7)
John Higgins’ record at the Masters makes him a familiar presence in the latter stages of the event. A two-time winner, he tends to become more effective as tournaments progress and pressure increases. His ability to control the pace of a match, turn frames tactical and capitalise on small errors often comes to the fore in quarterfinals.
Zhao Xintong remains a dangerous opponent when allowed to play freely. His scoring power and confidence can quickly put matches out of reach, but against elite match players his progress has sometimes been checked. If Higgins can restrict early chances and force longer frames, the balance shifts in his favour.
Higgins looks the more reliable option over the full distance, particularly if the match develops into a tactical contest and could be a spot of value at the 11/8 mark.
Judd Trump (4/11) v Mark Allen (21/10)
Judd Trump’s attacking game suits Alexandra Palace, and his long potting and creativity make him a constant threat. When he gets into rhythm, he can dominate quickly.
Mark Allen, however, arrives as a more complete player than in previous seasons. His consistency and tactical discipline have improved significantly, making him harder to break down in longer matches. If this contest becomes a battle of patience rather than pure scoring, Allen’s approach could give him the edge.
From a betting angle, Allen appeals as a value option at 21/10 in what looks likely to be a close, hard-fought match.
Wu Yize (8/11) v Xiao Guodong (11/10)
Wu Yize has continued to impress with how comfortable he looks against top-level opposition. His scoring has been consistent, and he has shown composure under pressure, which is often tested at this stage of the Masters.
Xiao Guodong brings greater experience and can slow matches down, but Wu’s ability to take chances when they arise could prove decisive. If Xiao is unable to control the tempo, Wu’s confidence and scoring should carry him through. From a betting perspective, Wu looks the more progressive player and is worth siding with at 8/11.
Neil Robertson (8/11) v Kyren Wilson (11/10)
Neil Robertson remains one of the strongest scorers in the field and can quickly take control of a match when in full flow. His Masters pedigree and ability to win frames in one visit make him a dangerous opponent.
Kyren Wilson, though, has built a reputation as one of the most dependable players in big matches. His tactical discipline and consistency often come to the fore in longer formats.
If the match becomes attritional, Wilson’s ability to apply sustained pressure may be decisive. He looks well placed to edge a close contest, particularly if the match goes deep.
