Guga, a champion in Paris in 1997, 2000 and 2001, knows experience will also be on his side against the Argentine, a Wimbledon finalist two years ago.

But the fans could be a decisive factor.

"The crowd will be on his side, which is normal. He's a great player and you must have respect for him. But I feel very well and he will have to fight hard to win this," eighth seed Nalbandian said after his victory over Marat Safin in the previous round.

Kuerten, who beat world number one Roger Federer in the third round, has been hampered by hip problems for the past three years and the pain could also have an influence should the match last five sets.

Nalbandian and fellow Argentine Gaston Gaudio will be trying to join compatriot Guillermo Coria in the last four.

Unseeded Gaudio will meet former world number one Lleyton Hewitt, who will attempt to reach his first semi-finals in Paris.

The Australian, a former Wimbledon and U.S. Open champion, will need to be at his very best against a real clay-court specialist.

"I've had some tough matches against him. This is his best surface. I need to go out there, stay aggressive and play my game," the 12th-seeded Hewitt said.