Carballes Baena and Darderi Clash in Marrakech Quarterfinals

MARRAKECH, Morocco — Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena faces off against Italy’s Luciano Darderi in the quarterfinals of the ATP Grand Prix Hassan II on April 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM CEST. Both players are riding high with recent successes, but Carballes Baena enters the match as a strong favorite after an impressive performance this week.

Carballes Baena, who was the champion in 2023 and a finalist in the previous year, has dominated his matches in Marrakech, not dropping a single set. In the Round of 16, he defeated Finland’s Harri Virtanen in straight sets, followed by a convincing win over Nuno Borges in the quarterfinals, where he saved an impressive 15 of 17 breakpoints. “I felt great out there, especially under pressure,” Carballes Baena said post-match. “Every match is a new challenge, and I’m ready for whatever comes next.”

Darderi is no stranger to pressure himself, having won four of his last five matches, including a notable comeback against Hugo Gaston in the Round of 16 where he dropped the first set but rallied to win. Darderi also dominated his quarterfinal match against Maxime Muller, winning directly in straight sets. According to Darderi, “This week has been fantastic for me. I believe I can compete with anyone on the court.”

Sports analysts see this match as a competitive showdown, with bookies rating it nearly 50-50, despite differing opinions. While Darderi has shown promise, Carballes Baena’s form this week suggests he is likely to continue his winning streak. Notably, Carballes Baena won both of their previous encounters on clay without losing a set.

Betting enthusiast insights suggest that placing a wager on Carballes Baena to break serve first might be a strategic move, given his strong start in recent matches and Darderi’s vulnerabilities on serve. “The odds are favorable for Carballes Baena to make the first significant move in this match,” experts predict.

Later on the same day, Tallon Griekspoor will compete against Kamil Majchrzak at 3:30 PM CEST in another quarterfinal. Griekspoor, emerging with four wins in his last five matches, faces Majchrzak, who has maintained a five-match winning streak. Both players are poised for a heated battle, with analytics showing Griekspoor slightly favored.

The matchup between Carballes Baena and Darderi is set to showcase thrilling tennis, as both players demonstrate their skills and determination to advance in the ATP Marrakech tournament.