Rafael Nadal to face Novak Djokovic in Italian Open final

Defending champion Rafael Nadal will play Novak Djokovic in a meeting of the world's top two players at the Italian Open on Sunday.

Top seed Nadal followed up Friday's win over Andy Murray by brushing aside Grigor Dimitrov 6-2 6-2 in the semis.

Djokovic, the second seed, had earlier fought his way past big-serving Milos Raonic 6-7 (5-7) 7-6 (7-4) 6-3.

World number one Serena Williams and Italian 10th seed Sara Errani will contest the women's final.

Errani thrilled the home crowd with a surprise 6-3 7-5 victory against sixth seed Jelena Jankovic to become the first Italian to reach the final since Raffaella Reggi in 1985.

"I've never felt something like this before," said the 27-year-old. "The crowd were giving me so much support that it almost put me off."

Williams, 32, gained revenge for her Australian Open fourth-round defeat by Ana Ivanovic with a 6-1 3-6 6-1 win over the Serbian 11th seed.

Djokovic needed three hours to get past Canadian eighth seed Raonic, who fired down 17 aces to the Serb's three.

"It's a big win because it gives me strength and belief that I can hopefully carry towards the final and the rest the season," said Djokovic, aiming for a third Rome title.

Errani is the first Italian woman for 29 years to reach the final in Rome

"I can't remember the last time I felt so helpless in a return game. I couldn't predict his serve at all."

Nadal enjoyed his most straightforward win of the week, coming through in two sets for the first time as Dimitrov failed to make a dent on the seven-time champion's defences.

"I played a solid match and was very good with my backhand. It was good confirmation that I play better. The forehand starts to fly again, the top spins as well - a lot of positive things," said Nadal.

He will take on Djokovic for the 41st time on Sunday, with the Spaniard leading 22-18 overall but Djokovic 7-4 up in ATP Masters finals.

"Djokovic always plays unbelievable, he's a complete player and has all the shots," added Nadal.

"If I want to have chances to win I have to play my best tennis. It will be a very tough match. I have to be ready for the competition."