ATP 500 Dubai 1/16-Finals
Fils – Borges: 25.02.2025 Time TBA
H2H: 2-1
Arthur Fils has won three of his last five matches. His last match was in Rotterdam, where Altmaier upset Fils in the second round. So far this season, Arthur has not had any remarkable results. He needs to start winning and stay consistent if he wants to keep his top 20 spot. Around this time last year, Fils was injured and did not play any tournaments in February. It is his first appearance in Dubai.
Nuno Borges has lost three of his last five matches. Last week in Doha, Nuno lost in the second round against Rublev in straight sets, as we had predicted. He started this season well, reaching the semifinals in Auckland. Bergs eventually stopped him in three tight sets. Nuno played well in Melbourne as well. He put up a big fight against Alcaraz in the third round, losing in four tight sets. Around this time last year, Borges played in Acapulco, losing in the opening round in three tight sets.
Best Bet to Make
According to the bookies, Fils is the slight favorite in this matchup, but we disagree. Nuno was consistent throughout the whole season. On the other hand, Fils struggled with his form since the beginning of the season. Borges is a better player now, and we expect him to win his opening match against Fils.
That being said, Borges winning is a value bet.
Value bet/ the best odds: Nuno Borges winning @2.30 @bet365
Cilic – de Minaur: 25.02.2025 Time TBA
H2H: 2-2
Marin Cilic has lost four of his last five matches. This will be his second match of the season. So far this season, Marin has only played in Doha. He had an unlucky draw and faced Alcaraz in the opening round. However, as we predicted, Cilic put up a big fight and lost in tight straight sets. It is his seventh appearance in Dubai. He has never made it past the quarterfinals. Around this time last year, Cilic was injured and skipped most of the season.
Alex de Minaur has won three of his last five matches. Last week in Doha, he reached the quarterfinals, losing against Rublev in three tight sets, as we predicted. A week before, he reached the final in Rotterdam, losing against Alcraz in three sets. De Minaur has been one of the most consistent players this season. This is his third appearance in Dubai. He has never made it past the second round. Around this time last season, de Minaur played in Acapulco, winning the title.
Best Bet to Make
According to the bookies, Cilic is the big underdog in this matchup, but we disagree. Marin played well against Alcaraz last week in Doha. He still has a big serve and will win his service games easily. We expect him to put up another big fight and keep this match tight.
That being said, Cilic covering the games handicap is a value bet.
Value bet/ the best odds: Marin Cilic +4.5 games handicap @2.10 @bet365
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY SportsA
