Nadal to face Djokovic in Monte Carlo final

By Julien Pretot

MONTE CARLO (Reuters) - World number one Rafael Nadal held off a late challenge from Briton Andy Murray to move to the brink of a record fifth consecutive title at the Monte Carlo Masters with a 6-2 7-6 semi-final win on Saturday.

The Spaniard, who has won his last 26 matches in the principality, will play world number three Novak Djokovic in Sunday's final after the Serb had earlier recovered to beat Swiss Stanislas Wawrinka 4-6 6-1 6-3.

"I played much better today than on the other days so that's a good preparation for the final," Nadal told reporters.

Asked about Djokovic, he added: "He's having a very good tournament. Sure, I have to play my best tennis if I want to have chances to win. So I'm going to try to play aggressive...

"I know it's going to be tough, but I expect to play like today or a little bit better."

Nadal, who has not dropped a set in Monte Carlo since the 2006 final against Roger Federer, pushed the fourth-seeded Murray far behind the baseline, leaving his opponent with little opportunity to attack.

MURRAY GASPING

The powerful Spanish top seed opened a 4-1 lead and had three break points in the sixth game after winning nine points in a row as Murray was left gasping for air.