After exchanging early breaks, Eala took control of the opening set and carried that authority into the second, opening up a clear lead before closing out the match. She said afterwards that she was encouraged by the progress in her game, particularly against an opponent she had struggled against in the past. 

“Today was difficult. Obviously, Magda being such an experienced player and I have [had] difficulties playing against her before, so I’m happy that I’ve seen my level increase and my level improve.”

Eala, the fourth seed in Auckland, now advances to the third WTA semi-final of her burgeoning career, where she will meet Paris 2024 mixed doubles silver medallist Wang Xinyu of the People’s Republic of China on Saturday (10 January).