Mumbai, Aug 14 (NationPress) Khan Tigers triumphed over Vernost Jaguars with a decisive score of 19-10, while the reigning champions SG Pipers Cheetahs showcased resilience to narrowly defeat Vedanta Leopards 15-14 during the third day of the World Padel League. These victories have secured their positions in the semifinals, joining Game Changers Lions and Hubtown Panorama Panthers.

The Tigers surged ahead in the women’s doubles, where Alejandra Salazar and Veronica Virseda dominated Lucia Martinez and Giorgia Marchetti with an impressive 6-0 win. The second set featured a showdown of youth versus experience, with Rama Valenzuela and Pol Hernandez from the Jaguars challenging the seasoned pair of Lucho Capra and Juan Bellauti from the Tigers. The Tigers clinched the set in a tense tiebreak, winning 7-6.

Capra later emphasized that their strong on-court communication was crucial for adapting and maintaining effective positioning under pressure. The final set showcased Jose Rico and Bellauti against siblings Miguel and Nuno Deus. Despite the siblings’ valiant effort, the Tigers finished strong with a 6-4 win, resulting in an overall victory of 19-10.

This season marked the first Code of Conduct breach, categorized as Level 1 for disobeying an umpire’s instructions, with Capra and Belluati entering 10 minutes late for their set. A level 2 warning could lead to a deduction of 2 points from their overall score.

In the match between the Leopards and SG Pipers Cheetahs, the initial men's doubles saw Ignacio Piotto and Javi Mora challenge Maxi Sanchez and Victor Ruiz in a closely fought set, but the Cheetahs maintained composure to win 6-4. During the women’s doubles, three top 10 players shared the court as Tamara Icardo and Marta Ortega battled with Sofia Araujo and Claudia Fernandez. Once again, the Cheetahs secured crucial points to win 6-4.

The concluding men's doubles featured Jairo Bautista and Sanyo against Fede Mourino and Teo Zapata. The Leopards managed to win 6-3, but the Cheetahs’ overall consistency led them to a narrow match victory of 15-14, confirming their place in the semifinals.

This Friday, the tournament enters the knockout phase, with the Vedanta Leopards set to take on the Vernost Jaguars in the Eliminator, followed by the Khan Tigers facing the Eliminator's winner in the Qualifier. Fans can anticipate thrilling padel action, critical points at stake, and exhilarating finishes as teams vie for the last remaining semifinal spot. Here’s how the points table stands heading into the knockout stage of the tournament.