BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Juan Monaco rallied to defeat defending champion David Nalbandian 2-6, 7-5, 7-6 (2) today in the semifinals of the Copa Telmex.

Monaco, the 2007 champion, made fewer errors in the second set and took a 3-0 lead in the all-Argentine match. Nalbandian broke twice to take a 5-4 lead but could not finish it off.

In the final, Monaco will face Tommy Robredo of Spain, who beat Jose Acasuso 6-4, 7-6 (3). Acasuso, who received a warning for ball abuse, led 4-1 in the first set but Robredo rallied to win five straight games.

Robredo won his eighth career title last week in Brazil.