Fernando Verdasco has advanced into the third round of the Madrid Masters after a 6-7 6-4 6-4 victory over Alejandro Falla.

The Spaniard made the worst possible start to the match as he was broken by his opponent, but he immediately broke back as the match remained on serve until 6-6.

It was Falla who secured the tie-break, however, demonstrating some wonderful passing shots to win it 7-4 and move ahead in the match.

Verdasco improved as the match advanced, however, and he broke at 4-3 in the second to move 5-3 ahead, allowing him to take the second set 6-4.

Falla looked to respond in the final set, but he lost two of his first three serves, allowing the Spaniard to take control of the set, eventually securing it with an ace.

Verdasco made the quarter-finals of the Madrid Masters three years ago.