Ten matches are on the slate in Osaka for Day 2. We here at LWOT cover four of them, including rising star Alexandra Eala’s contest, in this article. The other matchups, including Bianca Andreescu vs Viktorija Golubic and Leylah Fernandez vs Hailey Baptiste, are predicted separately. But who will advance?
WTA Osaka Day 2 Predictions
Jaqueline Cristian vs Elisabetta Cocciaretto
Head-to-head: First meeting
It has been a challenging few months for Cocciaretto. She last won two matches in the main draw of a WTA 250-level or higher tournament at Wimbledon. The Italian possesses slightly more overall power than Cristian, who relies on her forehand to attack. Despite her difficult run, this is a good matchup for Cocciaretto, and an ideal chance to get a main draw victory.
Prediction: Cocciaretto in 3
Rebecca Sramkova vs Joanna Garland
Head-to-head: First meeting
Sramkova’s results and development in the past 12 months have been considerably more impressive than Garland’s, who has yet to break into the Top 100. The Slovakian also plays her most impressive tennis on hard courts. If she is near her best, Garland will not present much of a threat.
Prediction: Sramkova in 2
Katie Volynets vs Jessica Bouzas Maneiro
Head-to-head: First meeting
Bouzas Maneiro often thrives on soaking up pressure from opponents. However, the Spaniard will likely be the aggressor against the gritty and determined Volynets. This could go either way and might be a lengthy battle. Bouzas Maneiro’s powerful forehand could be the decisive factor, but it is a 50/50 matchup.
Prediction: Bouzas Maneiro in 3
Alexandra Eala vs Tereza Valentova
Head-to-head: First meeting
This is Eala’s fourth tournament of the Asian swing and Valentova’s second. The Czech had not won a match during the swing until her victories in qualifying, which set up this meeting. Valentova usually tries to step into the court and attack whenever possible. Implementing that style against Eala will be challenging because of her athleticism and excellent return. Those factors should give the semifinalist in Miami the edge.
Prediction: Eala in 2
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke – Imagn Images
