Ferrer takes on nemesis Nadal in Barcelona final

David Ferrer overcame Milos Raonic to reach the final of the Barcelona Open, where he will yet again meet fellow Spaniard Rafael Nadal.

The number three seed prevailed 7-6 (7-2) 7-6 (7-5) and managed to overcome his opponent's massive serves. Raonic hit 15 aces but struggled against Ferrer's groundstrokes, and the Spaniard managed to hold his nerve in two tie-breakers.
Ferrer has lost in three finals in Barcelona to Nadal - in 2008, 2009 and 2011- and he will yet again take on his compatriot in the final match on Sunday. Nadal dominated Fernando Verdasco 6-0 6-4 to record a 33rd straight win in the tournament in their semi-final.
"I'm very happy to make my fourth final," Ferrer said. "I have a special relationship with this tournament. I hope I can fulfil my dream of finally winning here."
On the prospect of meeting Nadal again, he added: "Rafa is the best player, clay-court player ever.
"He has beaten me three times in the finals here. I hope tomorrow is different."