Analysis for Razzano-Safarova (WTA Berlin)

Head-to-head record 0:1

Virginie Razzano of France will play Czech Lucie Safarova in the first round at 2008 German Open. Razzano has had a good season so far even when she faced several tough opponents. In January 2008, Razzano lost to Ana Ivanovic of Serbia in the first round of the Sydney Medibank International 6-1, 2-6, 7-5. In the third set, Razzano was ahead 5-2, only to see Ivanovic win the next 5 games, and proceed to the quarter finals. She also managed to take a set to Jelena Jankovic in the third round at 2008 Australian Open to be eventually eliminated. She also played for France in Fed Cup and defeated Chinese No.1 Na Li in 3 sets and lost to Peng in 3 sets. Her latest results weren´t as impressive but still solid enough. She is a versitile and experienced player with a solid serve and all-court game. On the other hand, Lucie Safarova is having a nightmare season so far. She plays left-handed with a two-handed backhand. Her superb timing off the ground allows her to project groundstrokes of effortless power. She is quick to spot opportunities to take the initiative, she hits many spectacular winners, and she runs like the wind. Her preferred surface is clay. She started the season in a bad style but she is a player of big potential and already proved she is able to defeat the world top players. Well, the current form is on the side of her opponent but Safarova seems a bit overrated and odds above 2.5 are surely worth taking for a small stake.