Reigning champ Almagro into Brasil final

Nicolas Almagro`s love affair with the Brasil Open continued as he booked his place in the final.

The top-seeded Spaniard, who won the event a year ago, secured a spot in the showpiece with a 6-4 7-6 (7/4) win over compatriot Albert Ramos.

He was clinical on serve and now stands one win away from an 11th Tour title - all of which have been on clay.

He will face Filippo Volandri in the final, after the world number 69 beat fourth seed Thomaz Bellucci.

The Italian was a 5-7 6-0 6-2 winner in two and a half hours, breaking the home favourite`s serve six times.