Mertens vs Iulian Boiko Prediction 22 September 2026
💣 In the second round of the Scottish Open, Belgian cueist Ben Mertens faces off against Ukraine’s Yulian Boiko. The match will be played in a best-of-seven frames format, where a single misjudged shot can instantly derail a player's hopes in any given frame. Both players come into this head-to-head with identical records from their last ten matches. Boiko has already found his rhythm at the tournament, confidently clearing the opening hurdle, while Mertens is just getting his campaign underway.
Head-to-head statistics Mertens - Iulian Boiko
Ben Mertens Player Overview
The 21-year-old Belgian snooker player has maintained a solid competitive level, winning five of his last ten matches on the professional tour. Mertens’ main weapon remains his dynamic and effective attacking play: over this stretch, he has compiled 21 half-century breaks and a century, with a personal best of 120 points. In his most recent outing at the International Championship, Ben fell to Liam Highfield 3-6, but showed plenty of fight in individual frames. The Belgian reads the angles superbly, isn’t afraid to take on bold long pots, and punishes opponents’ safety errors with big breaks. Against a rival of similar age, Mertens will look to seize control of the table from the opening frames and dictate the tempo throughout.
Match Results: Ben Mertens
Iulian Boiko Player Overview
The Ukrainian snooker player made a strong start at the tournament in Scotland, overcoming Mahmoud Heydari 4-2 in the opening round. Over his last ten matches, Boyko has posted an even split of wins and losses, mixing impressive spells with occasional dips in form. However, when it comes to break-building, Yulian’s numbers are less impressive than his opponent’s: just 13 breaks over 50 points, no centuries, and a top run of 79. On top of that, the Ukrainian has regularly allowed his rivals to rack up big breaks, conceding 18 half-centuries over the same stretch. To challenge the Belgian on equal terms, Boyko will need to maintain maximum discipline in his safety play and avoid leaving open chances for his opponent.
Match Results: Iulian Boiko
⭐ Editor’s Prediction
Although both players share identical win-loss records, Ben Mertens appears the more dangerous prospect thanks to his higher break-building potential. The Belgian leads the way in 50+ breaks and has the ability to close out frames in a single, commanding visit to the table. Meanwhile, Yulian Boiko is prone to positional errors during safety exchanges-mistakes the Belgian will be quick to punish at every opportunity. In a short race to four frames, the ability to capitalise swiftly on an opponent’s slip-ups becomes a decisive factor. With his superior attacking form and creative shot-making, we’re backing the Belgian to secure his place in the next round. Our pick: Ben Mertens to win.