2026 Rio Open Tennis: Francisco Cerundolo at Thiago Agustin Tirante Odds & Prediction

Game Info (When and Where)

Date: February 18, 2026

Time: Not before 7:00 PM local time (19:00)

Venue: Quadra Guga Kuerten, Jockey Club Brasileiro

Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Tournament: Rio Open presented by Claro (ATP 500)

Betting Odds

The market really leans towards the world number 19 in this matchup, but the tight set-handicap odds show that there’s some respect for the underdog’s skills on clay.

Francisco Cerundolo: -550 (1.18)

Thiago Agustin Tirante: +400 (5.00)

Games Handicap: Cerundolo -4.5 (-110)

Total Games: Over/Under 20.5

Francisco Cerundolo Betting Preview

Francisco Cerundolo enters this match as the leading contender in South America. After securing his first Argentina Open title on February 15, Cerundolo is on a high in his career. His 2026 performance is remarkable; he boasts a perfect record on clay this season and recently reached the Round of 16 at the Australian Open, demonstrating his versatility before returning to his beloved red clay.

If you’re considering making some bets, Cerundolo is absolutely the top choice hammer. His inside-out forehand can be a challenge for many on slower courts. In the matchup between Francisco Cerundolo and Thiago Agustin Tirante, Cerundolo’s ability to strike the ball early and manage the tempo will be crucial.

Thiago Agustin Tirante Betting Preview

Thiago Agustin Tirante is currently ranked 92nd in the world and is a true dirt specialist. He excels in intense matchups, using his defensive skills to force his opponents into making mistakes. Coming into this match, he has a lot of confidence after defeating Christian Garin in the first round, where he demonstrated a much better serve and a backhand that stands strong under pressure.

In the clash between Francisco Cerundolo and Thiago Agustin Tirante, Tirante’s shot at victory depends on how well he can control the length of the rallies. If he can keep Cerundolo pinned back behind the baseline and prevent him from setting up his forehand, he might just put the favorite in a tricky spot.

Matchup Facts

Francisco Cerundolo and Thiago Agustin Tirante share a rich history, but it was Tirante who scored a significant victory in Lima in 2020.

Cerundolo is the number one seed at the 2026 Rio Open, and he has the highest expectations of his career resting on his shoulders.

This match features two of the top five ranked Argentinians currently on the ATP Tour.

The humid climate in Rio often helps Cerundolo’s powerful topspin, which tends to bounce really high off the Quadra Guga Kuerten surface.

Francisco Cerundolo at Thiago Agustin Tirante Prediction

Tirante plays well on clay, but Cerundolo is currently in the top ten. His sheer power and ability to hit winners from difficult positions give him a significant edge. Tirante could push a set to a tiebreak, but the top seed’s momentum is hard to stop.

Sportbook AG Final Prediction: Francisco Cerundolo to win in straight sets (6-4, 6-3).