Bucharest, Bad Gastein SF: All Romanian clash

Bucharest schedule:

http://www.wtatennis.com/schedule/tournamentId/3823/title/bucharest-open--bucharest-romania

Bad Gastein schedule:

http://www.wtatennis.com/schedule/tournamentId/1340/title/nurnberger-gastein-ladies

Match focus:

Kristina Kucova vs. Roberta Vinci

Roberta reaches her first semi-final on tour this season, and will be the favourite to advance to the final. Kristina has had a relatively easy draw to this stage, the only respectable opponent she defeated was Anna Schmiedlova. Not to say that the Slovak doesn't have a good game, but this is brand new territory for her. Vinci, with her vast experience, should be able to contain the raw game of Kucova.

Pick: Vinci in 2 sets

Simona Halep vs. Monica Niculescu

 

The stands should be packed with Romanian fans as these 2 vie for a place in the final. Halep is obviously the overwhelming favourite here, but Monica can irritate Simona if she's not too sharp. Halep winning the title will be the perfect ending that this tournament needs, so I believe the pressure will be on the world number 3. Nevertheless, Simona has barely been tested this week, so I believe she will cruise pass this as well.

Pick: Halep in 2 sets

Grace Min vs. Andrea Petkovic

Grace Min advances to her first career semi-final here, but will face the daunting task of toppling experienced Andrea Petkovic. The German has been enjoying a great clay season, and will most likely make the finals here. Grace was lucky that Flavia withdrew, paving the way for her easy passage here. Petkovic's game should be too much for the inexperienced Min to handle.

Pick: Petkovic in 2 sets

Shelby Rogers vs. Sara Errani

Well, Giorgi couldn't find the court yesterday, robbing us of a chance of an all-Italian clash. Shelby possesses a good serve, but her ground game is not as good, so I expect Errani to lap it up. The tireless Italian will take advantage of the compromised movement from the American, and show her how real clay court tennis is played. Also, it's also too much to ask of Shelby to reach her first final in her first semi-final appearance.

Pick: Errani in 2 sets