The remaining Round of 16 matches are completed on Day 4 of the ATP Lyon Open. Several excellent clay-court players are in action. This includes Francisco Cerundolo, who plays home favourite Hugo Gaston on Centre Court. That contest is one of three predicted in this article. We at LWOT predict the rest of the matches in Lyon in a separate article, including Frances Tiafoe vs Arthur Rinderknech. Which players do you think will win?
ATP Lyon Day 4 Predictions
Adrian Mannarino vs Luciano Darderi
Head-to-head: First meeting
Mannarino is the No. 3 seed in Lyon, which usually indicates a bad draw for his opponent. However, the Frenchman has always struggled badly on clay, only winning 16 of his 74 ATP matches on the dirt throughout his career. This includes four consecutive losses on the surface this year. Therefore, this year’s Cordoba Open champion Darderi will fancy his chances. Mannarino’s shots will sit up invitingly for the Italian’s heavy forehand to do a lot of damage. Darderi to progress to the quarterfinals comfortably.
Prediction: Darderi in 2
Yoshihito Nishioka vs Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard
Head-to-head: First Meeting
Mpetshi Perricard was hugely impressive in his victory against Lorenzo Sonego in the previous round. His more experienced opponent was below his best but the 20-year-old was still inspired in front of his home fans. He is looking for another upset against Nishioka, who has a run to the Round of 16 at the French Open to his name. It is not impossible, although Nishioka’s style is a different challenge. He will extend the rallies and test the consistency and physicality of the Frenchman. Mpetshi Perricard has a chance, but Nishioka’s craftiness gets a slight edge in Lyon.
Prediction: Nishioka in 3
Francisco Cerundolo vs Hugo Gaston
Head-to-head: First meeting
Despite suffering a fifth consecutive loss to Karen Khachanov in Rome, Cerundolo’s form has improved in recent weeks. Gaston’s level is unpredictable and often fluctuates during matches. Yet, he sometimes becomes inspired in front of French crowds, as proven in the past by previous runs at the Paris Masters and the French Open. Ultimately, the Argentine’s powerful forehand and more imposing overall game makes this a tough challenge for Gaston. The Frenchman will need to do a lot of running and defend very well to have a chance of causing an upset.
Prediction: Cerundolo in 3
Main Photo Credit: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports
