Czech Republic produced an impressive performance in Saturday’s doubles to ensure they take a 2-1 lead over Serbia into Sunday’s climax to the Davis Cup Final in Belgrade.
Novak Djokovic had put the Serbs ahead on Friday, before Tomas Berdych tied the score for the Czechs as the sides were level going into Saturday’s third rubber match.
And Berdych partnered Radek Stepanek as the duo defeated Ilija Bozoljac and Nenad Zimonjic 6-2 6-4 7-6 in just two hours and 12 minutes.
World number seven, Berdych, can win the Davis Cup if he defeats Djokovic in the first reverse singles match on Sunday and he claims all the pressure will be on his opponent.
“We just put all the pressure on them and we are in the best possible position after Saturday,” said Berdych. “I have nothing to lose [tomorrow]. It’s a huge challenge to play Novak on his own court.”
If Djokovic wins then Serbia will be banking on world number 117 Dusan Lajovic or No. 238 Ilija Bozoljac to win the second singles game at the Kombank Arena.
But stand-in Czech captain Vladimir Safarik is confident they can upset the home fans and take the one point required to lift the Davis Cup.
He said: “These guys are unbelievable. Their record is amazing. They played an unbelievable game. We are 2-1 up and it’s just one step to make tomorrow.”
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