Roger Federer has wrapped up a 7-6(5) 6-4 victory over Benoit Paire in the semi-finals of the Rome Masters to set up a tantalising final with Rafael Nadal.
The world number three - who can usurp Andy Murray as number two with victory in the Italian capital - overcame the plucky Frenchman in one hour and 28 minutes.
Paire was not overawed by the 17-time Grand Slam champion, matching him blow for blow in the first set in which the pair exchanged a break of serve.
He went ahead at a crucial moment in the tiebreaker, but Federer was able to get it back before going on to clinch a one-set lead.
The 24-year-old's challenge visibly waned in the second set as Federer moved through the gears, producing some sublime tennis on his way to reaching his third Rome final.
Michael Penkman
