It’s a first-time meeting for the players on Day 4 of the WTA 250 in Sao Paolo, which could be a tricky one for the favorites. The highlight of the day will undoubtedly be the all-Brazilian encounter between Beatriz Haddad Maia and Laura Pigossi. The crowd will undoubtedly look forward to that one, but on our side, we predict who will advance.
Panna Udvardy vs Ana Candiotto
Head–to–Head: First Meeting
Ana Candiotto made her debut on the main tour a memorable one as she ousted ITF circuit veteran Valeriya Strakhova in three sets. The home support will remain, but it will amount to nothing against Panna Udvardy, who, while not being a mainstay on tour, will still have too much firepower for the debutant, especially after her composed win in the previous round.
Prediction: Udvardy in 2
Renata Zarazua vs Berfu Cengiz
Head–to–Head: First Meeting
Berfu Cengiz ended her ten-match winless streak with a straight-sets win over Jasmin Ortenzi in the opener. In fact, it was her first win in all the 11 matches she’s played this year, and that kind of record can’t stand against Zarazu, a player who, like several other main tour players, will be looking to make a deep run in Sao Paulo.
Prediction: Zarazua in 2
Beatriz Haddad Maia vs Laura Pigossi
Head–to–Head: First Meeting
Beatriz Haddad Maia made quick work of 409th-ranked Italian Miriana Tona, showing no signs of fatigue despite arriving here after a fourth-round run at the US Open. She faces a tougher opponent in her compatriot, Laura Pigossi, who fought back to defeat Elizabeth Mandlik in three sets. The younger Brazilian is the more accomplished player, more so on hardcourts, and I expect her to go all the way in São Paulo.
Prediction: Haddad Maia in 2
Main Photo Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
