Rafael Nadal powers to win over Guido Pella to make Monte-Carlo Masters semis

Rafael Nadal survived a slow start to overpower Guido Pella to move into the Monte-Carlo Masters semi-finals.

It was Nadal’s 18th successive win in Monte-Carlo, but was 4-1 down in the first set before managing to pull his game around.

He eventually powered to a 7-6 (7-1), 6-3 win, though, and will now face Fabio Fognini in the last four.

“It was a very tough first set physically and mentally, too,” Nadal said.

“Losing the first three games with my serve was tough. But I found a way at the right time.

“I was lucky at 4-1, he had two points to be 5-1 and with 5-1 it’s almost impossible. I was lucky to escape that moment and then I played better.

“I’m very happy to be through. Being in the semi-finals again here means a lot to me.”

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