10.23.2024 04:00
The WTA 500 Round of 16 match in Tokyo pitches a mouthwatering clash pitting Bianca Andreescu of Canada and Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia. With so much at stake, the players go into the match with high stakes, as one seeks form in resurgence and another trying to get back into a good feeling following a disappointing performance in her last match. This contest is to be played on the hard indoor courts of Tokyo, which naturally sees aggressive baseline encounters. As such, both players have divided two previous meetings between them, making this an intriguing one.
They have played each other twice before, with the head-to-head at 1-1. The last they met was at the US Open in 2022, which Andreescu won in straight sets as her court craft and deft slices frustrated Haddad Maia. A lot of water has flowed under the bridge since then, and the Brazilian player, much improved, is firmly ensconced in the top 10 of the WTA rankings. They will be playing each other for the first time on indoor hardcourt, adding a layer of unpredictability to the match.
Claim Welcome BonusBianca Andreescu
Currently, WTA 159 Bianca Andreescu is having a pretty bad year in terms of form and consistency, which is reflected by the 4-6 record she had in her last 10 matches. She did, however, have some confidence from the previous round with a straight set victory over Mek Yamaguchi. One notices a lot of variety in her game, some baselines power intermingled with finesse but she has had injuries and confidence issues. However, the ability to rise to the big-time occasion and lift her level is still a threat, as seen in her US Open victory over Haddad Maia this year.
The key to success for Andreescu is going to be variety and tactical intelligence. She can stop Haddad Maia from finding a rhythmic tempo by dropping shots in, changing the pace of the game, and even using her backhand to take advantage of the Brazilian's positioning within the court. Andreescu will also have to serve consistently to prevent Haddad Maia from having free looks at Andreescu's second serve. This could prove the decider in her ability to step in and take time away from her opponent, especially on the fast indoor surface.
Beatriz Haddad Maia
WTA 10-ranked Beatriz Haddad Maia has had a decent enough season so far but her form slumped in the last match as she suffered a comprehensive defeat against Paula Badosa. Having led 7-3 in her last 10 matches, Haddad Maia would want to get into the groove. Her left-handed game is pretty suited to hard courts, depending on strong serving and powerful groundstrokes to take hold of the game. She is durable with the fight in her to go deep into tournaments, which she has shown so far this season.
Haddad Maia's game plan will revolve around imposing her power game. The Brazilian will try to exploit the court, especially to the forehand wing, with her lefty serve. For sure, consistency from the baseline and keeping Andreescu on the defensive will be key to a good performance. Haddad Maia also needs to elevate her return game since in recent times the stats read 17% first-serve return points won for her. That would give her a very good opportunity to take control of the match if she's able to put some early pressure on Andreescu's serve.
Expert Betting Tips
While Haddad Maia suffered defeat in her last outing, she is in better form compared to her opponent this season. She has weapons to upset Andreescu's inconsistency, and her giant serve and baseline game really work under indoor fast conditions. While Andreescu has shown sparkles of genius, given her current level, coupled with the grit and determination of Haddad Maia, the scales fall on the side of the Brazilian.
With the tight history between them and Andreescu's penchant for rising to big occasions, expect this one to go to three sets. Both players are capable of taking a set, but Haddad Maia's consistency over the course of the match should see her prevail.
- Beatriz Haddad Wins + Over 18.5 Games @ 2.04 Odds
- Over 21.5 Games @ 1.89 Odds
- Total 3 Sets @ 2.50 Odds