Intro:

Fourth-seeded Kei Nishikori sets up ATP 500 Japan Open final against third-seeded Milos Raonic in Tokyo, after victories over German Benjamin Becker and Gilles Simon of France respectively on Saturday (4th October).

Script:

Fourth-seeded Kei Nishikori advanced to the final of the Japan Open with a 4-6, 6-0, 7-6 (7-2) victory over unseeded Benjamin Becker of Germany on Saturday.

However, the home favourite stuggled out of the blocks as Becker imposed a series of impressive shots that took advantage of Nishikori's poor mobility in the first set.

The Japanese player has been dealing with a lower-back injury in the past few days and Becker took full advantage sealing the first set 6-4.

As his back loosened, so did his game, Nishikori showing some excellent shots from the baseline as he cruised to three straight breaks against the German.

He closed the set out 6-0, a demolition to tie the game out.

But Becker refused to give up and pushed his opponent to a tie break in the third and decisive set of the match.

Nishikori eventually sealing the win much to the delight of the home crowd present.

He can now look forward to a final match-up against Canada's Milos Raonic.

The third seed overcame Gilles Simon of France in two sets, never really being troubled by his opponent.

Raonic took the opening set ease thanks to his big serve and some nice passing shots.

He closed out the second and the match 6-1 6-4 to secure a third straight final appearance in Japan.

Last year he was beaten by Juan Del Potro, and will be hoping for a better result against Nishikori.

Although the home favourite will not only have the backing of the crowd, but the mental edge, he has a 3-1 record against Raonic