Rory McIlroy’s nail-biting win over Xander Schauffele sends him to last four of WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play 2023

McIlroy and Scheffler progress to the semi-finals of the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play


Rory McIlroy’s nail-biting win over Xander Schauffele sends him to last four of WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play 2023

Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele ( Image via GolfMagic )

World No. 3 Rory McIlroy has secured his place in the semi-finals of the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play after a tense 1up victory over Xander Schauffele. The win sees the Northern Irishman edge closer to his first tournament victory in 18 months, having last won the WGC-HSBC Champions in November 2019.

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McIlroy’s progression to the last four was not without its drama, as he and Schauffele were neck and neck throughout their quarter-final match. Both players struggled from the tee on the 18th hole, leaving them with difficult approach shots to the green. However, it was McIlroy who held his nerve to hole a magnificent birdie from 12ft to secure the win.

The victory was all the more impressive given McIlroy’s performance earlier in the day, where he beat Australian Lucas Herbert 2up. With two impressive performances under his belt, McIlroy will now face American Scottie Scheffler in the semi-finals, who produced a stunning comeback to beat Jason Day.

Related: Veteran golfer and winner of nine majors Gary Player supports Rory Mcllroy to win the Masters

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Scottie Scheffler’s back-nine masterclass sees him through to semi-finals

Scottie Scheffler
Scottie Scheffler ( Image via Sky Sports )

While Rory McIlroy’s victory was hard-fought, it was Scottie Scheffler who produced the standout performance of the day. The world No. 1 was three holes behind at the turn against former world No. 1 Jason Day, but a stunning back-nine display saw him win four of the last six holes to secure a 1up victory.

Scheffler’s win sets up a tantalizing semi-final clash with McIlroy, with the winner set to progress to the final of the tournament. The other semi-final will see Sam Burns take on Matt Kuchar, with both players impressing in their quarter-final victories. With just two matches left to play, the tension is sure to be high as the remaining players battle it out for the title of WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play champion.

Rory McIlroy’s progression to the semi-finals of the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play sees him edge closer to his first tournament victory in 18 months. The Northern Irishman’s hard-fought victory over Xander Schauffele was a testament to his skill and determination, and sets up a mouth-watering clash with world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. With just two matches left to play, the stage is set for a thrilling end to the tournament.

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