The Czech Republic and Russia have both drawn blood in the Federation Cup final in Moscow. After two Saturday matches the teams are tied at one win each, which means everything will begin from scratch on Sunday.
Petra Kvitova put the Czech Republic into a one rubber to nil lead. She easily overcame Russia’s Maria Kirilenko, who was a late replacement for injured Vera Zvonareva, in straight sets.
The world number two and the recent WTA world champion, who has been in brilliant form this year was rarely troubled, as she breezed to a 6-2, 6-2 win.
There was a lot of pressure on Svetlana Kuznetsova to level things up for the home side. And the St. Petersburg native did just what the local fans had been waiting for against Lucie Sarfarzhova.
The Russian made a good start after taking the first set for the loss of just two games, and squeezed her opponent in the second, 6-3.
The result means the teams are equal heading into the decisive matches on Sunday.