Belgium shocked Australia on the first day of their tie as they won both the singles matches, including the big upset of Raphael Collignon defeating world No.8 Alex de Minaur. This puts Australia in a difficult position going into Day 2’s doubles and reverse singles, with a berth in the Final 8 at stake. As always, we at LWOT will offer predictions for every match on the slate.
Davis Cup Predictions: Australia vs Belgium
Rinky Hijikata and John Peers vs Sander Gille and Joran Vliegen
Head-to-Head: first meeting
This doubles rubber in Sydney becomes a must-win for Australia to stay alive in the tie. Rinky Hijikata is making his Davis Cup debut and has good hands at the net to help out the experienced John Peers, who is the reigning Olympic champion. However, the Belgian doubles will have better coordination as Sander Gille and Joran Vliegen are a seasoned pair. I expect the crowd to lift the Australian team and help them win this match.
Prediction: Hijikata and Peers in 3
Jordan Thompson vs Raphael Collignon
Head-to-Head: first meeting
This match could be the decider for who qualifies for the Final 8 if the Australian doubles team and Alex de Minaur do their jobs. Raphael Collignon got the biggest win of his life as he upset Alex de Minaur on Day 1 of this tie. He was cramping towards the end of the second set and all through the third set, but redlined his way to victory. He hit some monster forehands to get out of trouble, but was also helped by de Minaur’s lack of awareness. If he starts cramping again, Jordan Thompson has more variety and can use the drop shots and angles to stretch the Belgian. However, I am leaning towards him if he is fit.
Prediction: Collignon in 3
Alex de Minaur vs Zizou Bergs
Head-to-Head: de Minaur 1-0 Bergs
Alex de Minaur played one of his worst matches of the season to lose against a cramping Raphael Collignon. The Australian went 5/26 on break points and won just 57% of his first serve points. He will need to step up significantly to keep the hopes of his country alive. Zizou Bergs did his job perfectly against Jordan Thompson and will fancy his chances if de Minaur doesn’t step up. I expect the Australian No.1 to play a much better match here and get the win.
Prediction: de Minaur in 3
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey – Imagn Images
