Spain's Juan Carlos Ferrero reached his fourth successive French Open semi-final this evening, outlasting Fernando Gonzalez 6-1 3-6 6-1 5-7 6-4.
The third seed, a runner-up to Albert Costa in last year's final, will meet his compatriot again in the next round. Costa earlier beat another Spaniard Tommy Robredo in five sets.
Ferrero made hard work of his victory, allowing the Chilean back into the match on each occasion he had dominated a set, but his experience on centre court showed as his nerve held best after three hours 29 minutes.
The 23-year-old, desperate to end his quest for a first Grand Slam crown, fell to his knees at the end of a match which enthralled the centre court crowd.
"It was a really tough match," said Ferrero who embraced Gonzalez at the end of the match. "He played superbly and showed all his qualities. And the fans were phenomenal throughout."