Ruud advances to Argentina Open quarters

Top-seeded Casper Ruud has defeated Spain's Roberto Carballes Baena 7-6 (7-2) 6-2 to advance to the quarter-finals of the Argentina Open.

The world No 8 will now meet local favourite Federico Coria, who earlier beat fifth-seeded Dusan Lajovic of Serbia 4-6 7-5 6-4.

Ruud withdrew from the Australia Open due to an ankle injury, but is now recovered. It was his first match in the tournament.

"It feels good to play a match again," the Norwegian said afterwards. "I was a bit rusty, but I think I started well.

Some mistakes here and there, a couple of breaks against me, but I was able to get them back. All in all it was a good way to go through."

Also on Wednesday, Spanish veteran Fernando Verdasco beat Brazil's Thiago Monteiro to reach the last eight. The 38-year-old won the clash 2-6 6-3 7-5.

Wednesday's last match of the round of 16 will be played between third seed Lorenzo Sonego of Italy against Argentina's Sebastian Baez.