Italy got off to a strong start in their Billie Jean King Cup Finals campaign, defeating France 2-1 in their Group D clash in Seville on Wednesday. Martina Trevisan won the opening rubber after recovering from a slow start to beat Alize Cornet 2-6 6-2 6-2. Jasmine Paolini then battled back from a deficit in the deciding set to beat Caroline Garcia 7-6(6) 5-7 6-4 in a grueling two-hour and 39-minute match. While France managed to get a consolation victory in the doubles, Italy’s singles wins gave them an unassailable lead.
Looking ahead to their next fixture against Germany, Italy captain Tathiana Garbin acknowledged that it will be another tough day.
On the other hand, the home fans at Estadio de la Cartuja were disappointed as hosts Spain suffered a defeat to Canada. Marina Stakusic’s impressive 6-3 6-1 victory over Rebeka Masarova was followed by Leylah Fernandez’s tough 7-6(8) 7-6(7) win over Sara Sorribes Tormo in a match lasting almost three hours.
Thursday’s action will see reigning champions Switzerland attempt to stay alive in Group A as they take on the United States, while Australia will be looking for their first win against Kazakhstan.
