Fernando Verdasco vs Dustin Brown: Ultimate Tennis Showdown 2 Preview and Prediction

It is a clash between two aggressive players tonight. After suffering a surprise loss to youngster Corentin Moutet in his debut appearance, Fernando Verdasco bounced back strong to defeat Benoit Paire in his next match. 

Dustin Brown was also sailing in the same boat after getting crushed by Benoit Paire in his first match. The German brought his campaign back to track after sailing past Moutet in a thriller. 

The Spaniard has clocked just an average first-serve percentage of 61% in both his matches so far. He must improve it ahead of the knock-outs.

Having recovered from a right leg injury, Verdasco decided to join the Ultimate Tennis Showdown at the last minute. The veteran has struggled to adapt to the fast format. "Everything can change in one second. You feel that the pressure is really building up and that you don't have the right to fail, that in the end the only thing that makes you fail is playing with the handbrake", he said. 

On the other hand, Brown, despite being 35 years old, has shown tremendous athleticism to match up to the changing conditions.

Though he played the first edition of UTS, the German was sluggish against Paire with a poor first-serve percentage of 50% and hitting just three winners. 

Brown played a totally different game against Moutet smashing 19 winners and committing 20 unforced errors. His first-serve percentage was effective as it rose to 63%. 

Strengths of Verdasco

A powerful forehand, good variation of groundstrokes and heavy topspin produced in his returns are his biggest strengths. However, the  World number 52 needs to have a more consistent second-serve and possess an alternative plan if things go wrong. 

Strengths of Brown

His unorthodox gameplay, clever half-volley drop shots, and an effective two-handed backhand. His entertaining shot-making as won him a legion of fans. However, the German needs to watch out for his temperament in big matches. 

Head to Head record

Verdasco and Brown have played each other only once so far. Brown won that sole clash in Hamburg in three sets in 2014. 

This match is a must-win for both players to improve their chances of making the knockouts.

Prediction -  Verdasco to win in five quarters 

Featured image credits: oddspedia.com