BWF Yonex Thailand Open Semifinals: Chou Tien Chen vs Angus and Axelsen vs Ginting

The semifinals of the Thailand Open are here. World number Chou Tien Chen faces World number 8, Angus Ng Ka Long followed by World number 4, Viktor Axelsen locking horns against World number 6, Anthony Sinisuka Ginting.

Chou Tien Chen made short of the work of Malaysian shuttler, Lee Zii Jia beating him 21-17 21-15 in his quarterfinal. "I think I had more patience against him and I won most of the long rallies, he wanted to attack too much and maybe he lost some focus," said Chou quite pleased with his performance.

On the other hand, Angus defeated his compatriot, Lee Cheuk Yiu 21-17 21-12 in the quarters. Despite struggling at the start, the Hong Kong player took 7 points in a row while trailing 17-14 to win the first game. Chou Tien Chen leads the head to head record 10-6 against Angus. The last 4 encounters since 2019 have been equally split between the two players.

Prediction - Chou Tien Chen to win in three games

Axelsen thrashed sixth seed, Jonatan Christie, 21-14 21-5. The Dane was dominant from start to finish as he sailed through the clash convincingly. The fourth seed has not dropped a game yet in this tournament indicating the strong form he is in. 

He has also recovered completely after undergoing ankle surgery last year when he got injured after winning the All-England Open in March. Axelsen has got back into right shape now. 

On the other hand, Ginting had to dig deep as he emerged victorious against Rasmus Gemke in 3 games. The Indonesian leads the head to head record 4-2 against Axelsen. 

He had a brilliant season last year when he won the Indonesia Masters and also led his country to a triumph at the Asia Team Championships. During the coronavirus pandemic-imposed break, Ginting worked more on his attacking game. 

Prediction - Viktor Axelsen to win in two games

While Chou vs Angus will be a defensive battle with a lot of long rallies, Axelsen vs Anthony will be an all-out attack as both players will display shotmaking of the highest standard.

Featured Image Credits - Agence France Presse