By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Alexandra Eala delivered another standout performance as she took down Romania’s Sorana Cirstea, 7-5, 6-4, to advance to the quarterfinals of the WTA 1000 Dubai Tournament Championship in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (Philippine time).

The Negrense rising star showed poise and efficiency throughout the straight-sets victory, capitalizing on key opportunities while maintaining consistency on serve and return.

“I think the key to today was staying calm and trusting my shots. I think I’m solid in particular moments where I needed to be, and that reflected in my performance and the score as well,” Eala said.

“Every round is such a battle and filled with tension. I’m really happy with how I performed. I’m really happy to be able to share it with all of you,” the PSA co-Athlete of the Year added.

Eala converted four of her nine break point chances, doubling Cirstea’s two breaks on four opportunities.

She also held the edge in total points won, 77-64, and receiving points, 31-24.

Despite not firing an ace, Eala made up for it with steady serving, winning 67 percent of her first-serve points and an impressive 74 percent on her second serve.

She also posted a higher first-serve percentage at 69 percent compared to Cirstea’s 55 percent.

Eala controlled the match momentum, winning 13 games overall and putting together a match-best run of seven consecutive games, which proved decisive in securing the victory.

Cirstea finished with two aces but struggled to match Eala’s consistency, winning just 52 percent of her second-serve points.

Eala, currently listed at No. 47 in the WTA rankings, will next battle Coco Gauff of the United States in the Round of 8 to be played on Friday, February 20 (Philippine time)./ASC, WDJ