2016 Women's World Championships: Massaro Aims To Sizzle Against Raneem On Friday

KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 (Bernama) -- World number one and top seed Laura Massaro (left) of England hopes to continue her perfect record when facing world number three Raneem El Welily (right) of Egypt in the semifinals of the 2016 Women's World Squash Championships, Friday. The 2013 world champion said it was important for her to get a good sleep and remain focused when the tournament is drawing to a close. "It is no secret that the semifinals at the World Championships is a big match for both of us, so I will prepare myself physically and mentally to give my best performance tomorrow (Friday)," Massaro told reporters. Earlier, she had to go the distance before defeating world number six Omneya Abdel Kawy of Egypt in the quarterfinals, winning 11-3, 10-12, 11-8 and 11-7 at the Nicol David Arena, National Squash Centre in Bukit Jalil, here, Thursday. Raneem also received stiff resistance from seventh seed, Amanda Sobhy of the United States before chalking up a 11-5, 5-11, 12-10 and 11-7 win in another semifinal encounter. Massaro said: "It was tough from the first round but I'm glad to manage to sneak into the semifinals. You know when its tied 7-7, 8-8 and 9-9, a lot of physical preparation and fitness (is needed) because you have 14 to 16 tough rallies at that point, if not more. It's really hard to concentrate when you are tired," said the 32-year-old Massaro. Raneem, on the other hand said, the hard-fought win against Sobhy would serve as the best tonic before the crucial semifinals against Massaro. "I'm happy to have been tested today to handle some pressure and managed to get through, so I'm hoping it will make me feel more confident in tomorrow's match," the 2014 World Championship runner-up said adding that Malaysia has been a happy hunting ground for her since she won the Malaysian Open twice - 2012 and 2014. (photBERNAMA) --BERNAMA