Swiss Open 2008 Semifinals Predictions

Mohd. Zakry/Mohd. Fairuzizuan vs. Hendra Setiawan/Markis Kido
It has been a stunning tournament, with the Malaysian pair downing the third and eighth seeds to reach their first semifinals of the year. The Indonesians on the other hand, have been equally as impressive so far, barely being tested. It is often rumored that once Hendra and Markis make it past the first few rounds, they will be unstoppable. It will be a good test for Zakry and Fairuz to see whether they can slip into the position of 2nd Men's Doubles in the upcoming Thomas Cup, and see whether Markis and Hendra can back up their Malaysian Open title after the exit of two of the top three seeds.

Lee Chong Wei vs. Wacha Przemyslaw
Wacha (pronounced wa-ha if I am not wrong) has had an impressive tournament so far, claiming several notable players on the way. On the other hand, world number 2 Lee Chong Wei has yet to lose a set in this tournament. Bet is on Lee to finish this game quickly to set up a mouth watering final between him and either Lin Dan or Bao Chunlai.

Lee Yong Dae/Lee Hyo Jung vs. He Hanbin/Yu Yang
I have watched this Chinese pair's meteoric rise through the ranking points. On the other hand, Yong Dae and Hyo Jung, the defending champions, would like to bag their second title of the year. It is hard to say who would actually win, but I think Hanbin and Yu Yang will be just edged out of a finals placing by the defending champions. The Koreans to win in 3 tight sets.

Choong Tan Fook/Lee Wan Wah vs. Lee Yong Dae/Jung Jae Sung
Choong and Lee failed to beat this pair in last week's All England Semifinals, even after having 4 game points. Lee and Jung on the other hand, are newly crowned All England Champions, even though I am still not convinced of their performance. Choong and Lee have to deal with their stamina, as they have played three consecutive drawn out three set matches. However, the Malaysians will be raring to avenge their bitter defeat last week, and might just do so by the thinnest of margins.