Expectation on last year's runner-up was ramped up following defending champion Luke Humphries's surprise exit and the 17-year-old had to withstand intense pressure at Alexandra Palace.
His class showed when it was needed most as he averaged 111 in the final set, having hit 14 180s in the match.
“I think I went into 10th gear – I had to. I had to dig deep,” he told Sky Sports after setting up a last-eight meeting with Nathan Aspinall.
“I just wanted him to miss. I had a lot of chances at doubles, but I’m happy to win. I wouldn’t say I was nervous, it was more adrenaline. But I said in that last leg, ‘Hold your own for once in a game at least’.”
Littler began the night with two maximums on his first visit to the oche for each of the opening two legs as he cruised to the first set, although his inability to hit doubles saw him lose the second.
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