(CNN) -- Top seed Andy Murray produced a much-improved display to cruise into the semifinals of the Farmers Classic in Los Angeles in straight sets.
The world number four, who struggled to beat American qualifier Tim Smyczek in his opening match, found his form with a 7-6 6-1 victory over Alejando Falla of Colombia on Friday.
The Briton -- who has yet to win an ATP Tour event this season -- will now face fourth seed Feliciano Lopez for a place in the final.
The Spaniard recovered from dropping the opening set to edge past American James Blake 3-6 7-6 6-4 in a tight encounter.
Speaking about his future opponent, Lopez told the official ATP Tour website: "Since the first time I saw Andy, I realised he was a very talented player and would be one of the best players in the world."
Murray is only playing in the event as a late wildcard after world number two Novak Djokovic was forced to withdraw through injury.
Meanwhile, second seed Sam Querrey will take on Serb Janko Tipsarevic in the other semifinal.
Defending champion Querrey also needed three sets to defeat German veteran Rainer Schuettler 6-2 3-6 7-6, while Tipsarevic upset the formbook with a 6-3 7-5 victory over third seed Marcos Baghdatis.
