Adam Williams presents his prediction for the Welsh Open snooker match.
Luca Brecel and Jackson Page will face off in the quarter-finals of the Welsh Open, with the winner set to meet either Mark Selby or John Higgins in the semi-final.
Luca Brecel
Yesterday, Luca Brecel defeated Pang Junxu (4:1), and although he made just one significant break of 69 points, it was evident that The Belgian Bullet controlled the match from start to finish. Brecel played in his usual attacking style, executing spectacular shots while preventing Pang from gaining any momentum. Just a few weeks ago, it seemed that his season was beyond saving, but now, his participation in the Grand Prix in Hong Kong is a real possibility. To secure his place, he must reach the final in Llandudno, overcoming not just Jackson Page, but also one of snooker’s greatest legends – Mark Selby or John Higgins, who will contest the other quarter-final.
Jackson Page
Page is now the only Welshman remaining at his home event in the Home Nations series, after Matthew Stevens, Jamie Jones, and Ryan Day all were eliminated from the last 16. He swept past Tom Ford (4:0) in the last round, adopting a similar approach to Brecel – keeping the match under control despite making just one major break. Page has shown strong form this season, reaching the quarter-finals of the International Championship and finishing as runner-up in the short-format Championship League, where he lost to Ali Carter (3:1).
Jackson Page vs Luca Brecel Prediction
Luca Brecel is the deserved favourite. Both players delivered similar performances in the previous round, without any high breaks, but for Page, this is the norm, whereas Brecel is capable of far more. Additionally, Page’s playing style suits Brecel well—he plays fearlessly, which often gives his opponents chances in every frame. To compete at a higher level, Page needs to add more balance and rationality to his game. The pressure of performing in front of a home crowd could also add extra responsibility, which may affect his composure. Brecel, on the other hand, remains relaxed, he is the stronger player, who has rediscovered his form at the perfect time. He is ready for serious challenges, and we expect him to secure the win.
