Federer sets up possible Nadal clash in Rome…..

Swiss world number two Roger Federer survived a late fightback by Kevin Anderson Thursday to book his place in the quarter-finals and a possible last four match-up with Rafael Nadal at the Italian Open.

Elsewhere, Britain’s Andy Murray (fatigue) and defending women’s champion Serena Williams (elbow) withdrew, while men’s defending champion Novak Djokovic was put through his paces before ousting big-hitting Brazilian qualifier Thomaz Bellucci 5-7, 6-2, 6-3 to set up a quarter-final meeting with Japanese fifth seed Kei Nishikori.
Federer, bidding to win his first title on the red clay of the Foro Italico, swept Anderson aside 6-3 in the first set and looked to be heading for an easy win on Centre Court before the 15th-seeded South African launched a late fightback.
Anderson stubbornly saved two match points in the second set before Federer sealed the win 7-5 to book a last eight clash with Tomas Berdych, who ended the hopes of local hope Fabio Fognini in a thrilling contest won 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7/2)
by the Czech.
If Federer accounts for Berdych he will meet seven-time champion Nadal — a 6-4, 6-4 winner over big-serving American John Isner — in the semi-finals on Saturday, providing the Spaniard overcomes Swiss Stan Wawrinka on Friday.
Nadal came into the event looking to make amends for his defeat to Murray in the final of the Madrid Masters last week, when the Scot took his victory streak to a remarkable 10 wins out of 10 on clay this season.
The Spaniard said he is “more than happy” as he looks to put the mediocre form that has besieged his clay court game lately behind him as he ups the tempo ahead of bidding for a 10th French Open title at Roland Garros.
“I’m more than happy, I think I played a fantastic match against a very, very tough opponent,” said Nadal.
Nadal, however, said his form on the red dirt so far this season means he won’t be the bookies’ favourite.
He added: “This year for sure I haven’t been consistent enough to be considered the main favourite for Roland Garros.”

Cap- Swiss tennis player Roger Federer returns a ball to South African Kevin Anderson