Michael van Gerwen survives scare to defeat Andrew Gilding at World Matchplay 2025

Michael van Gerwen survives Gilding scare to advance at World Matchplay

Michael van Gerwen dug deep to avoid an upset against Andrew Gilding at the World Matchplay on Sunday afternoon, surviving a stern test to edge through 10-8 on 20 July.

What happened in the match?

The Green Machine started shaky, with Gilding racing to a 4-1 lead after a 91 checkout and a 102 checkout. Van Gerwen held at 4-3 with a 71 checkout, then broke back to level the match. Gilding led again but missed chances to hold, allowing MVG to reel off four straight legs.

Van Gerwen sealed the win with a break on double 16, then another on double 8 before finishing with a 180 and double 16. The match stretched to 10 legs, with MVG’s finishing proving decisive.

Why it matters for Michael van Gerwen

This wasn’t the smoothest route for Van Gerwen, who has struggled against Gilding in recent meetings. The win keeps his World Matchplay hopes alive and shows his resilience under pressure.

Gary Anderson meanwhile crushed Ryan Joyce 10-2 with a 109 average, while Dirk van Duijvenbode survived a thriller against Chris Dobey 13-11 after Dobey missed nine match darts.

What comes next for MVG?

Van Gerwen advances to the next round of the World Matchplay, where he’ll face the winner of the late-night clash between Luke Humphries and Damon Heta. The afternoon session delivered drama, firepower, and a reminder that MVG isn’t invincible-but he’s still dangerous.