TC Plus Match of the Day: Angelique Kerber vs Simona Halep, Eastbourne

Angelique Kerber (WTA No. 5, UTR No. 9) vs. Simona Halep (WTA No. 7 UTR No. 3)

Grass-court tennis typically consists of abbreviated points, unreturned serves and a surplus of net play. That will not be the case on Thursday when two of the best baseliners in the world, Angelique Kerber and Simona Halep, face off for a spot in the Eastbourne semifinals.

The two Grand Slam champions have played each other 12 times in total, with Halep owning a 7-5 edge But the Romanian came up short in their only meeting on grass at 2016 Wimbledon, falling to the German in the quarterfinals.

Although Halep has won two more matches, Kerber owns the total set tally, 15 to 12, and has not lost a set to Halep in any of her victories. On the flip side, Halep has only defeated Kerber in straight sets once, in the 2014 Doha final.

Neither player has a major weakness to speak of. In many high-level matches, the outcome is often decided between the ears. Both players defend exceptionally well, but a defensively-oriented game isn't a typical way to win on grass. Look for both players to up their aggression and try and take control of the point as soon as possible, likely off the opposing player's second serve.

The margins in this match are razor thin. The Vegas oddsmakers list Halep as a slight favorite, with UTR also giving the edge to Halep. It’s anybody’s guess, but look for the flatter, more penetrating groundstrokes of Kerber to propel her across the finish line.