The 2025 BetVictor World Cup of Darts began with a bang in Frankfurt, featuring a few surprises and some of the top dogs laying down early markers in their hunt for glory. North America laboured on the opening night with the United States and Canada both struggling in their opening encounters against Asian opposition.
USA 1-4 HONG KONG
It’s back-to-back wins for Asian teams over North American opposition in a game that was anything but pretty - but Hong Kong won’t care one bit. If Matt Campbell’s decision to wear an extra layer was questionable, then Lok Yin Lee’s choice to throw with a hoodie under his match shirt was downright head-scratching.
The trip to Frankfurt didn’t get off to the best start for the American duo. Danny Lauby arrived without his luggage, and Jules van Dongen has spent the past few weeks throwing with his non-dominant arm. Not exactly ideal preparation. As good as the USA pairing can be, they simply didn’t show it this time. They’ll be expected to beat Bahrain tomorrow - but so will Hong Kong. And if both results go that way, the star spangled banner will cease to fly.
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CANADA 1-4 MALAYSIA (F)
The first real shock of this year’s World Cup saw Malaysia stun the Maple Leafs with a composed and confident display. Canada, led by Matt Campbell - who, despite the arena being hotter than a sauna, still chose to wear a T-shirt under his match jersey - looked relaxed and upbeat alongside Jim Long during the walk-on. But that early composure didn’t last much beyond the opening leg, as the pair failed to find their rhythm, allowing the Southeast Asian duo to grow steadily in confidence.
The methodical Tan Jenn Ming - darts lingo for as slow as a tortoise on crutches - refused to be hurried, dictating the pace of play. Alongside his compatriot Tengku Shah, the clinical Malaysian duo took full advantage of a Canadian team that never really clicked into gear. A massive scalp for that nation, and a result that’s blown Group F wide open. For Canada - only victory over the Danes will keep them in.
(Editor's note: The full original version of appeared on dartsworld.com and has been published here with permission)
Words: Paul Woodage