Vincent van der Voort has backed the Netherlands to challenge for the World Cup of Darts title, but warned that chemistry between Michael van Gerwen and Gian van Veen will be key. Speaking on the Darts Draait Door podcast, the former professional said: "If they click and things go smoothly, then it's probably the best Dutch pairing available." Van der Voort also admitted that based purely on current form, he might have selected Wessel Nijman and Kevin Doets instead, but stressed that experience at a tournament like the World Cup remains invaluable.
Van der Voort praised the international character of the World Cup, calling it a "cult tournament" where unusual countries and players get to shine. He noted that the level of smaller darts nations has risen, and singled out the Philippines, Spain, Poland, and the Czech Republic as teams the established names would rather avoid. Of Spain, he said: "Justicia is a quality player and, together with Reyes, they form a partnership that nobody will want to face." Poland also impressed him, with Krzysztof Ratajski's experience and Sebastian Białecki's excellent form making them a dangerous team.
The Dutchman expressed concerns about Germany's Ricardo Pietreczko, who has been struggling with dartitis. "They are going there with someone who is struggling," Van der Voort said. With Martin Schindler also not in top form, and the Philippines and New Zealand in their group, he does not expect an easy opening phase for the Germans.
Van der Voort identified defending champions Northern Ireland as a huge threat, praising Josh Rock and Daryl Gurney: "I know Daryl Gurney will always give 100 percent, and naturally they'll want to defend their title. I think it's simply a very good pairing, and whoever beats them will have done well." However, he believes England remain the team to beat, with Luke Humphries and Luke Littler reaching a level that hardly anyone can match. "If they get anywhere near that level, the rest of the field might as well pack up and go home," he said.
Despite the praise for England and Northern Ireland, Van der Voort sees plenty of opportunities for the Netherlands. He thinks Van Gerwen and Van Veen can beat any team when at their best, predicting: "England versus the Netherlands in the final. And from a Dutch perspective, let's hope that happens."
