Germany’s Darts Duo Survive Scare in World Cup Opener
Frankfurt, June 25, 2024 – The host nation Germany made a winning start to the 2024 World Cup of Darts on Friday night, as Martin Schindler and Gabriel Clemens edged past New Zealand’s Ben Robb and Haupai Puha in a closely contested 4-3 triumph.
In their opening group encounter, the German pair found themselves trailing 3-2 after the Kiwis fought back from a 2-1 deficit, including a clinical 15-dart leg on double eight. However, Clemens and Schindler displayed their grit and experience, with Clemens producing a remarkable 124 checkout on the bullseye to secure the victory and avert a shock loss.
“It was a tough game, New Zealand played really well and we played not so good,” admitted a relieved Clemens after the match. “In the decider, New Zealand were on 42 after 12 darts, that’s not bad for a doubles game! I went to the oche, saw I had 124 and had to make it… and I did.”
Despite the scare, the German duo remains confident in their chances of going deep in the tournament, especially with the home crowd advantage. Team captain Schindler, who is currently the German number one, emphasized the team-first mentality that has served them well.
“I’m not playing on my own and I’m probably also not the captain of our team. It’s just like we are playing together, so we are winning together or we are losing together,” Schindler explained. “I’m trying my best if I’m at the oche and so is he. And yeah, we’re looking forward to playing our best and hopefully to go as far as we can.”
With defending champions Wales losing the services of Gerwyn Price, many are tipping the Germans as potential dark horses to lift the Darts World Cup title this year. Schindler, however, remains focused on the team’s own performance rather than the opposition.
“It’s not about the opponent. Our biggest enemy, our biggest opponent I think, is ourselves,” he declared confidently.
The tournament will be broadcast live in the United Kingdom by Sky Sports, ensuring that Darts enthusiasts won’t miss a moment of the action. The first group matches will commence on Thursday, June 27, at 6 p.m., with the final group stage matches scheduled for Friday evening. The knockout rounds will then take place over the weekend, culminating in the semifinals and final on Sunday, June 30.
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