This week’s ATP 250 event has a predictably weak field on paper given its place on the schedule and the fact it is competing with two ATP 500 events in the same week (in Dubai and Acapulco), but it still features a lot of clay specialists, who will be looking to seize this rare opportunity to go on a deep run or even win a title at ATP level.

ATP Santiago Day 2 Predictions
Elmer Moller vs Roman Andres Burruchaga

Head-to-head: first meeting

Burruchaga has been playing quite well and has finally reached the Top 100 on the back of his solid clay performances. On paper, he has a very kind first round draw and should be able to start another run. Moller hasn’t played much this year and he didn’t really good last week in Rio de Janeiro qualifying. On current form, Burruchaga should advance here.
Prediction: Burruchaga in 2

Thiago Agustin Tirante vs Ignacio Buse

Head-to-head: Tirante 1-0 Buse

Buse had the best week of his career in Rio, with wins over João Fonseca and Matteo Berrettini earning him a first ever ATP 500 semifinal. He will be looking to make another deep run here but in the first round he’s facing another player who earns a living on the tour on the back of his clay performances. All in all, it should be a long grind, a very close match decided by small details in the big points.
Prediction: Buse in 3

Juan Manuel Cerundolo vs Cristian Garin

Head-to-head: first meeting

2026 has been an absolute disaster for Garin, who is yet to get a single win so far this year. His Top 20 days seem to be well behind him and at this point Cerundolo is actually the better player of the two and has actually been winning some matches lately. While it should be a close match, Cerundolo seems to have the edge at the moment.
Prediction: Cerundolo in 3

Emilio Nava vs Matteo Berrettini

Head-to-head: first meeting

Berrettini’s constant attempts to get back to his best level have been unsuccessfully, but this week presents another opportunity to get a first title since July 2024. On paper, Nava on clay is a very kind draw and even a struggling Berrettini should be able to win and get some confidence going here.
Prediction: Berrettini in 2

Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports