Facundo Arguello defeats Raven Klaasen in the quarterfinals – Manta Open 2011 CH
Argentina’s Facundo Arguello was amazingly upbeat in his quarterfinal clash at the 2011 Manta Open, when he defeated South African Raven Klaasen on Thursday. The 18-year-old
Argentine played some spectacular tennis to win 6-4, 6-4 and move into the semi-finals where he will face Riccardo Ghedin of Italy.
Arguello appeared to be toying with the South African and never looked tired during the whole match. He already knew his opponent’s weaknesses and did not allow him to get
the hook by making errors himself. The South African player made Arguello’s match everything but easy. Klaasen played very well in the early part of the match but once Arguello found his footing, it became very difficult for the South African to find a way
past the Argentinian.
After a straight forward first set, Arguello found himself down at 2-0, but the Argentinian pro did not allow Klaasen to get a hold on his serve and conveniently concluded
the match in straight sets.
As the first set started, the world No.242 quickly found his groove and managed to nail Klaasen with some of his lightning deliveries. The Argentine acquitted himself very
well and took a 4-2 lead in the first set, but his opponent’s forehand was looking ominously good and he quickly caught him with a tremendous forehand winner down the line, taking the score to 4-all. . Nevertheless, Arguello continued to remain focused and
converted one of six breakpoints en route to the second set with a 6-4 score line.
Klaasen struck 62 percent of first serves, winning 81 percent of points on them. In comparison, Arguello fired two aces, 67 percent of first serve and gained 85 percent
of points on them. Handling his serve masterly, Arguello kept Klaasen dragging off court with plenty of kick. Like a true champion, he made a right move, hitting a backhand volley, before going on to serve out the set.
It was then that the world No.242, showed his power and never looked in danger. The Argentine player showed no fear and continued to play persistently in the second set.
Arguello went up to break Klaasen with his first break point, going 4-1 up in the second set. Klaasen did not find his way back after that, as Arguello presented his brilliant tennis skills to close out the match in straight sets. Klaasen scored six percent
points less than Arguello in total to suggest he was easily outplayed by his Argentine opponent in the second set.
Arguello now moves on into the semi-finals where he will face Riccardo Ghedin of Italy, who defeated Ivan Endara of Ecuador to reach the quarterfinals of Manta Open 2011.
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