Federer is playing his second event of 2007 having won in Australia

The world number one, whose last defeat came against Andy Murray last August, beat fifth seed Haas 6-4 7-5.

He will play Mikhail Youzhny in Saturday's final after the Russian defeated Robin Soderling 7-5 6-2.

Youzhny came through despite having been on court until close to midnight on Thursday as he beat Rafael Nadal.

"When you beat the number two in the world you always have power to play," said Youzhny.

I thought that was an excellent performance Roger Federer

"Even if you have not slept well and are not fresh it gives you power. I had around eight hours sleep, but I wanted more for sure.

"But after a few games I woke up. I shall need more sleep tonight for sure."

Youzhny is looking for back-to-back titles after winning in Rotterdam last week.

Haas had chances to break Federer and even held a set point in the second set but each time, the world number one withstood the pressure.

"It was extremely physical out there, a lot of tough points. It was tough to get the break, and he didn't face a break point all last week so he was definitely on a roll," said Federer.

"I knew it was going to be tough, a lot of running, patience as well, and hopefully from my end also serve well and try to stay in the match.