"I think it's a good opportunity" - Van Duijvenbode past the worst of injury concerns and eyeing first major title at European Championship 2024

Dirk van Duijvenbode has qualified for the quarterfinals of the 2024 European Championship. 'Aubergenius' defeated Daryl Gurney 10-5 in the second round on Saturday afternoon in Dortmund and now faces Luke Woodhouse.

This victory is a great boost for Van Duijvenbode, who is on the road after being felled by a shoulder injury late last year. It is the first time since November 2022 that he has reached the quarterfinals of a ranking major. Two years ago, Van Duijvenbode even made it to the final four at the European Championship, and he must defend the prize money from that result at this edition.

"I was a bit nervous," Van Duijvenbode admitted honestly in his post-match press conference. "I could have made this easier, but in the end, I think it was still comfortable."

As mentioned, in the next round, the 32-year-old Dutchman will take on one of the tournament's surprise packages Luke Woodhouse, who won 10-8 over Ryan Searle in his last 16 tie. "I think it's a good opportunity for both of us," Van Duijvenbode previews. "But I feel like my old darts are returning again."

Van Duijvenbode has had a difficult last twelve to eighteen months due to injury. Hopefully though, the Dutchman is beginning to show signs that he's through the worst of the injuries effects. "Playing well is more important," he concludes, fed up on injury talk.

The tournament will be broadcast fully live on ITV. The daily evening sessions are at 6 p.m., while the afternoon sessions start at 11:45am. on Saturday and Sunday.

The first round will be completed on Thursday, Oct. 24, and Friday, Oct. 25. The 16 winners of the first round will compete for a spot among the final eight on Saturday, Oct. 26. The quarterfinals will be on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 27, followed by the semifinals and finals in the evening.