In a clash between former US Open junior champions, Camila Osorio dashed the hopes of Filipino fans to see their countryman Alex Eala lift his first WTA title.

In her first professional match against Osorio in the quarterfinals of the Philippine Women’s Open held at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center on Thursday night, the 49th-ranked Ila succumbed in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4.

The first set was a shaky service, with momentum swinging back and forth as both players traded breaks. Three double faults occurred early in the set, highlighting a lack of rhythm on her serve.

However, Osorio finally took control with a crucial break in the seventh game and calmly consolidated his hold to extend his lead to 5-3, enough to secure the first set.

The scenario remained the same in the second set, with Osorio and Ila unable to control their serve through the first four games and continuing to trade breaks.

Even with 4 wins and 4 losses after eight matches, and three breaks each, the pressure was mounting, but it was the Colombian, ranked 84th in the world, who scored when it mattered most.

Osorio made a decisive break in the ninth game and served confidently in the 10th game, clinching the match and preventing Ila from coming back.

”sayan, hindi pumasa ngayon sa level Peroan important nandit ako sa Manila, sa pilipina, nandito ang WTA,” Ila said after the loss.

“I really hope that you get inspired and fall in love with tennis. I love tennis so I hope it grows. I’m so lucky to be able to share this experience and this journey with you.”

It was a close match, with both players having an even second service win rate of 50%. The pullback came from the first serve, with Osorio efficiently converting winners at 59%, better than Ila’s 51%, and played a decisive role throughout the match.

Iara will next turn his attention to the WTA 500 Abu Dhabi Open, scheduled for January 31st to February 7th.

Meanwhile, fifth-seeded Osorio has advanced to the semifinals and will face Solana Sierra on Friday.