Noemi Basiletti meets Julie Struplova in the second round of WTA Ljubljana on September 16 at 08:00 UTC. The ranking gap points towards Struplova; the recent clay evidence makes Basiletti the more compelling side.
Basiletti keeps finding another ball
Basiletti opened by beating world No. 158 Lola Radivojevic 7-6(7), 6-4, staying composed through a long first-set tiebreak. That followed her W75 Koksijde title, where she recovered from a set down and survived missed finishing chances against Barbora Palicova.
Struplova ended a difficult run with a 7-6(5), 6-2 victory over Polona Hercog, but the Slovenian was carrying a leg problem and lacked match fitness. Struplova can take the ball early and dictate, yet recent matches have also shown a habit of loosening her grip after moving ahead.
Patience can turn the first strike
Both players prefer initiative, so the key is what happens after the opening attack fails to finish the rally. Basiletti has recently looked happier playing the extra shot, defending with depth and returning to the front foot rather than trying to paint the sideline at the first invitation.
Struplova’s ranking and larger career haul command respect, but Basiletti brings the stronger sequence of pressure-tested performances. Her movement, persistence and current confidence give her the edge if Ljubljana produces another match full of long games and shifting leads.
Prediction: Noemi Basiletti to win, odds 1.77
