EZEKIEL Macario and Janelle Pangilinan won their semifinal matches in the CNMI Badminton National Championships Friday at the TSL Sports Complex.
Ezekiel Macario is an experienced player and he continues to show why he is among the elite in his first match which was against Perry Li.
From start to finish, Macario was in total control, routing Li, 21-0, 21-0.
In his next match, Macario faced Nathan Guerrero with both players giving it their all in the first set which was highlighted by quick returns and quick reflexes.
But Macario managed to stand his ground long enough to win the first set, 21-17.
In the second set, Macario’s smart placements were too much for Guerrero who lost the set and match, 14-21.
Macario now heads to the finals and his next opponent will be the winner  of the match between Joseph Torres and Jordan Pangilinan which is set for Friday.
Women’s
In the women’s singles, Janelle Pangilinan took a while before she found her rhythm against Lucelle Lampera.
But as soon as Janelle Pangilinan established control, she finished strong to bag the first set 21-12.
In the second set, she refined her technique to dispatch Lampera 21-4.
Janelle Pangilinan’s opponent in the finals will be Hannah Choi who overwhelmed Michaella Serrano, 21-0, 21-0.
The participants of the CNMI Badminton National Championships pose for a photo.
Ezekiel Macario attempts a backhand return during a match Friday at the TSL Sports Complex.
Janelle Pangilinan extends for the return during a match Friday at the TSL Sports Complex.