Italy and Czechia’s United Cup quarterfinal tie will include a fascinating matchup between Wimbledon finalist Jasmine Paolini and 2023 French Open runner-up Karolina Muchova. They are two of the best women’s players yet to win a Grand Slam and both are terrific to watch when they are in full flight. We at LWOT predict all three matches in this quarterfinal tie, but which team do you expect to reach the semifinals?
United Cup Quarterfinal Predictions
Italy vs Czechia
Flavio Cobolli vs Tomas Machac
Head-to-head: first meeting
Cobolli and Machac are among the most improved ATP players in the last 12 months. Both men like to trade from the baseline but with different strengths. Machac’s two-handed backhand is one of the most impressive in men’s tennis, while Cobolli is most dangerous with his huge forehand. This promises to be a tight battle. Machac’s ability to attack Cobolli’s backhand might prove the difference. However, this could go either way.
Prediction: Machac in 3
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Jasmine Paolini vs Karolina Muchova
Head-to-head: Muchova 4-0 Paolini
The head-to-head proves how challenging this matchup has been for Paolini. Admittedly, three of her four losses to Muchova came before 2022, when she was a much inferior player to now. However, Muchova’s comprehensive win against the Italian at last year’s US Open was an ominous sign. The Czech’s variety and ability to seize the initiative when she gets time in the rallies is a challenging matchup for Paolini. Last year’s Wimbledon runner-up also struggles to exploit Muchova’s return, one of the weakest parts of her game, due to not having a powerful serve.
Prediction: Muchova in 2
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Sara Errani/Andrea Vavassori vs Karolina Muchova/Tomas Machac
Head-to-head: first meeting
The players chosen for the doubles could change depending on whether either team holds an unassailable 2-0 lead before the match, but all four of the players currently scheduled to play are skillful doubles players. Overall, Errani and Vavassori looked more impressive during the tournament than Muchova and Machac. Errani’s experience could prove decisive if this turns out to be a deciding match for a place in the semifinals.
Prediction: Errani/Vavassori in 3
Main photo credit: Cara Owsley/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK
