In a match so tense it had fans 🍿glued to their seats, Scottish snooker legend John Higgins narrowly defeated China’s Xiao Guodong 13-12 at the World Snooker Championship on Saturday. The Crucible Theatre clash went down to the wire 🔥, with Higgins securing his quarterfinal spot against fellow 'Class of 92' icon Mark Williams.
Frame-by-Frame Drama
After two sessions locked neck-and-neck 🤼, Xiao briefly led 9-8 with a clutch 76-break ⚡️. But Higgins? The four-time champion fired back 👊, sinking a daring long yellow to reclaim momentum. Even after Xiao’s 10-10 equalizer, the 'Wizard of Wishaw' pulled off a 41-break to inch toward victory.
The Final Frame Frenzy
At 12-10, Higgins nearly sealed the deal—until Xiao clawed back one frame. But experience prevailed as the Scot closed it out, setting up a nostalgic quarterfinal against Williams 🏴. Fun fact: Both turned pro in 1992 and have 7 world titles combined!
Why It Matters
Beyond the green baize 🎱, this win keeps alive Higgins’ quest for a fifth crown—and serves up a Gen X throwback as he faces Williams next. For Xiao, the tight loss proves China’s rising snooker stars 🌟 are forcing legends to bring their A-game.
