Match Prediction 04/05

ATP Barcelona Final Clay

Rafael Nadal (2) – David Ferrer (5)

My tip Nadal won the Monte Carlo Masters last week beating Federer in straight sets. He gave chances to Federer however the Swiss master was unable to capitalise particularly in the second set where he was 4-0 up.

 It was interesting to see Nadal not having the upper hand in the match on a few occasions for example when going a break down twice in the first set, but he broke back immediately each time and he showed when really needing a game he can turn on the style. I think Federer certainly has the game to trouble the Spaniard on this surface but he would need to play a near flawless match.

Ferrer is obviously a very different player when compared with Federer and I’m not sure his battling style of play is capable of beating Rafa. To beat Nadal you simply have to do more than just battle as he will battle just as hard. Ferrer doesnt really have the power or accuracy in his groundstrokes to trouble the World Number 2 and you can be sure there will be a few long rallys in this match.

The only similarity between Federer and Ferrer is that they were both a double break up against Nadal in the second set in their most recent matches and both times Nadal rallied back to win the respective sets 7-5. This shows Nadal’s level of grit and determination and if he is going to lose a set on this surface he will not let it pass easily.

It has to be noted that Nadal is in fact yet to lose a set this clay court season and the only thing that is ever going to stop him winning every match is physical condition.

However he is looking 100 percent here and I think I routine straight sets win is on the cards here.

Predicted Winner :: Nadal

ATP Munich BMW Open

Fernando Gonzalez ( 15 ) - Simone Bolelli ( 58 )

Bolelli came back from the dead against Mathieu who is not on particularly good form at the moment. I have been waiting for Gonzalez to finally show some form and the time is now for the Chilean.

A short time a go I tipped Gonzalez to do well in the Sony Ericsson Open and said:  

“Fernando Gonzalez did not make the most of his draw losing in two tight sets to Canas so I will be kept waiting for the Chilean to hit the form in which he is virtually an unstoppable force and it just a matter of time before he gets back into the top ten.”

Well I think Gonzalez will be able to win his first title of the season here as he has looked quite comfortable on the clay this week. Bolelli has shown in recent performances that he is no mug but the quality of the ‘Gonzo’ serve and forehand coupled with his experience should be the telling factors in this match but don’t be surprised if this goes to three sets.

Predicted Winner :: Gonzalez