Nadal sets up Djokovic clash

Rafael Nadal cruised into the Internazionale BNL d’Italia final by destroying Fernando Gonzalez of Chile today.

The world number one won 6-3 6-3 to set up a meeting with defending champion Novak Djokovic.

Third-seed Djokovic came from behind to beat world number two Roger Federer 4-6 6-3 6-3.

Djokovic, who has lost five of his last six meetings with Nadal, including the Monte Carlo final last month, knows it will be difficult to stop the Spaniard from clinching his fourth title in Rome tomorrow.

“There’s not much to say about Rafa on clay,” said Djokovic, who needs to defend his title to prevent Andy Murray overtaking him in the rankings. “He is the absolute favourite to win.

“I won a set against him in Monte Carlo and learned that I have to play every point against him tomorrow and wait to get chances.”

Djokovic needed two hours and 10 minutes to oust second Federer.

The Swiss won the opening set and looked as if he might cruise to an easy victory when he opened up a 2-0 lead in the second before rain delayed play.

When play resumed, Federer won his serve but lost the next five games as Djokovic tied the contest at 1-1 to set up a deciding third set.

Federer hit back to go 3-1 up but lost the next five games to hand Djokovic his first ever win against him on clay.

“I played much better after the rain break,” admitted Djokovic.

“I started being more patient, moving much better and making him play more.

“He was serving quite well and then after the rain break he had ups and downs.

“He felt pressure and started serving worse.”

The world number two made 42 unforced errors in defeat.

“I wish I would have been a bit more solid,” said Federer. “But the points were just going quickly and sometimes as was the case today, it goes bad.”

Federer, who had arrived in the Eternal City hoping to reach his first final in Rome in six years, will now focus on bouncing back at the Madrid Masters later this month.

“At the end it’s always disappointing when I exit a tournament,” said Federer.

“I got used to winning tournaments and this leaves a bitter taste.

“It doesn’t take me long to get over it but it’s not a good feeling.

“I will try to improve and hopefully, play better in Madrid.”