Men’s medal matches decided on Saturday at #FTLMajor

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Nick and Phil earned a dramatic comeback win against Olympic champions Alison/Bruno under the Center Court floodlights

It’s America versus Brazil in the men’s battle for medals on Super Saturday at the Fort Lauderdale Major.

Two home teams will take on two teams from South America in what promises to be a fascinating final day of competition in the men’s bracket.  

In the final game of a breathless Friday at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, Phil Dalhausser and Fort Lauderdale native Nick Lucena booked their spot in the last four with an incredible comeback against Olympic champions Alison/Bruno.

The Americans lost to the Brazilians on this very beach in 2015 and in the quarterfinals in Rio in the summer but there was no stopping the home legends this time. Roared on by a passionate crowd the pair rallied back after losing the first set to equalize and then take the decider in thrilling fashion.

“Brazil versus America is a fierce rivalry,” said Phil afterwards. “There’s something about beating Brazil and I’m sure they feel the same when they beat us.

“It goes back to the beginning of beach volleyball – so anytime you beat Brazil it’s special – especially if it’s on American soil.”

Swatch Major Series on Twitter

Sloooooooow it down... And that's 1-1! Third set decider it is! 😅 https://t.co/Wg8pgNmX5A

Their victory set up a semifinal first up on Center Court on Saturday (10.30am ET) against Brazilians Evandro/Andre, who beat Jake Gibb and Taylor Crabb earlier in the day.

In the second semifinal, 44-year-old John Hyden and Ryan Doherty, 33, will get the crowd’s support against Alvaro/Saymon.

The Americans caused an upset by coming from behind to beat Olympic silver medalists and European champions Lupo/Nicolai in a three-set thriller. Alvaro/Saymon continue to impress in the tournament and they were again in top form to see off the challenge Polish pair Fijalek/Bryl.

Tomorrow’s the penultimate day of action on the sand with the men’s medal matches and women’s quarterfinals the pick of the action. Don’t miss a thing and sign-up to our BeachStream for live coverage.