The tennis Italian makes it two for two in the first qualifying round of the Madrid Masters 1000. In fact, both Fabio Fognini and Luca Nardi won their matches, qualifying for the decisive round to enter the main draw.

The Ligurian tennis player defeated Swiss Alexander Ritschard, world number 135, in two sets. 6-1 7-6 the score accrued in one’hour and a half of play in favor of the Taggiasco who, after a downhill first set, needed the tie-break to win the second partial as well.

The Marche player, on the other hand, overcame wildcard Manas Dhamne, number 775 in the ATP rankings, in two sets. Nardi defeated the Indian with a double 6-4 in an hour and a quarter of play.

A single break made the difference in the first partial, while in the second the Italian was good at coming back from 1-3.

In the decisive round of the qualifying draw Fognini will face the winner of the match between Rinky Hijikata and Lloyd Harris, while Nardi will face one of Hugo Gaston and Yannick Hanfmann.

Even Lionel Messi, through his own social channels, dedicated a message of condolence for Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter morning at the age of 88.

“An Argentine pope, different, close – wrote the Flea in a story posted on his own Instagram profile depicting him at the Vatican bringing a gift of an olive plant to the Pontiff -. Rest in peace Pope Francis”.

“Thank you for making the world a better place: we will miss you” concluded the Argentine champion, who under the pontificate of Francis, led the Albiceleste team to triumph, winning the World Cup in Qatar in 2022.

In Argentina, like Italy, soccer has stopped in mourning for the death of the Holy Father. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) suspended matches in all leagues scheduled for Monday, postponing them until Tuesday.

The 32nd day of La Liga closes with the challenge between Girona and Betis. Kickoff at 9 p.m. at the Estadio Municipal de Montilivi. Biancorossi in the hunt for precious points to move away from the relegation zone, just three points ahead of third-last Alaves. On the other side, the Andalusians, Fiorentina’s next opponents in the Conference League semifinals, are aiming for fifth place, which this year will guarantee access to the 2025/26 Champions League, four points away.

Michel launches Stuani from 1′ in attack in place of Abel Ruiz, with Tsygankov, Martin and Danjuma in support in the three-quarter. Midfield hinge formed by Romeu and Herrera, in defense Krejci with Blind.

Pellegrini relies on Hernandez in attack, with Isco behind him in the three-quarter, completed by Antony and Rodriguez. Midfield line composed of Fornals and Cardoso, in defense Ruibal and Perraud will act as full-backs.

Probable lineups

Girona (4-2-3-1): Gazzaniga; Martinez, Krejci, Blind, Gutierrez; Romeu, Herrera; Tsygankov, Martin, Danjuma; Stuani. All. Michel.

Betis (4-2-3-1): Adrian; Ruibal, Bartra, Natan, Perraud; Cardoso, Fornals; Antony, Isco, Rodriguez; Hernandez. All. Pellegrini.