Serena Williams expects Maria Sharapova "battle"

Serena Williams has said that she expects a "good battle" against Maria Sharapova in their gold-medal match at the Olympics later today.

The American brushed aside Victoria Azarenka on Friday to reach the final, while Sharapova took out fellow Russian Maria Kirilenko.

"I really look forward to playing Maria," said Williams. "I haven't played her in a while. We always have good matches. It will be interesting. It will be a good battle."

Both players will be going for the prestigious career Golden Slam when they meet on Centre Court today.