Rafa Nadal remained on course for a record fourth straight Monte Carlo Masters title after beating Spanish compatriot David Ferrer 6-1 7-5 to reach the semi-finals.

Rafael allowed Ferrer just 14 points in a one-sided first set. However, last year's Masters Cup finalist got back on track in the second, challenging his opponent with forehand winners to lead 3-0, 40-15.

Rafa then fought back and pulled two breaks back, levelling at 5-5 after Ferrer squandered three set points. He wasted two more break points, leaving the three-times French Open champion to wrap it up with a superb passing shot on Ferrer's serve.

Rafa has yet to lose a set in Monte Carlo since the 2006 final against Roger Federer, who is still on track to meet Rafa in the final after playing his best match of the season on clay by beating David Nalbandian 5-7 6-2 6-2.