Roger Federer into Madrid Open semis

Roger Federer has advanced into the semi-finals of the Madrid Open after he overcame the challenge of David Ferrer.

The world number three came up against a typically defiant Ferrer in the first set, but an early break of serve saw him claim it 6-4.

The Spaniard dug his heels in even further in the second as some belligerent play from the back of the court kept Federer at bay.

However, the Swiss snatched a break late on before he served out the match 6-4.

Federer will now face Janko Tipsarevic for a place in Sunday's final.