We head into the penultimate stage at the WTA 250 in Osaka as four players slug it out for a chance to win the prize money and points at stake as the season winds down. Both matches are first-time clashes between the players, adding an air of uncertainty, but we predict who will make it to the championship match in Japan.
WTA Osaka Semifinal Predictions
Jaqueline Cristian vs Tereza Valentova
Head–to–Head: First Meeting
Tereza Valentova is just one victory away from reaching the final in her debut at Osaka and the biggest match of her career. The teenager has continued her impressive display in Japan with a 4-6 6-2 6-3 victory over sixth seed Olga Danilovic, and will secure a new career-high ranking inside The top 70 regardless of the outcome here.
In her bid for a title match, she will face World #47, Jaqueline Cristian, who advanced to the semifinal without hitting a tennis ball after top seed Naomi Osaka withdrew due to a leg injury sustained in her match against defending champion Suzan Lamens.
Although Cristian often flies under the radar, many expected to see four-time Grand Slam winner Osaka competing at this stage, which presents a significant opportunity for Valentova. The young player has displayed some mesmerising tennis throughout the tournament, and she will secure a spot in Sunday’s final if she maintains her giant-killing form.
Prediction: Valentova in 3
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Leylah Fernandez vs Sorana Cirstea
Head–to–Head: First Meeting
Leylah Fernandez’s impressive performance in Osaka continued as she secured a convincing victory over Rebecca Sramkova to earn a third consecutive win in straight sets. Now, the fourth seed will face Sorana Cirstea for a chance to reach the final, following Cirstea’s chaotic match, where she eventually won in three sets against Viktorija Golubic.
This promises to be an exciting match, considering both players have consistently delivered strong performances, especially in critical moments.
Although Cirstea is the lower-ranked player, she can’t be underestimated in this one and in a first meeting with Fernandez, the match is up for the taking.
Prediction: Cirstea in 3
Main Photo Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports
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