Kasatkina defeats Teichmann in Prague, gives Russia the lead over Switzerland in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals

The initial schedule had Pavlyuchenkova, the highest-ranked Russian, take on Teichmann yet it was Kasatkina who did so. It did not prove a mistake and actually turned out brilliantly as the Russian completely smashed her opponent in the first match. It was a very balanced first set from the Russian who did lose her serve but she was magnificent retuning.

Teichmann committed a lot of errors (16) compares to only 4 by Kasatkina and that lost her many points she could have easily won. All of that combined for an easy 6-2 finish for Kasatkina in the first set. The 2nd set was a lot more competitive as Teichmann played a bit better. Kasatkina was once again superb fairly easily winning points on her own serve.

The Swiss player had a lot more issues on her own serve but she was able to hold off the Russian for the early going of the 2nd set. As it progressed, Kasatkina was able to create more and more chances and eventually, it culminated with a break at 4-4 in the 2nd set. The Russian took the 5-4 lead and held her serve to close out the match with 6-4.

A valuable point for the Russian team who will have a chance to close it out in the 2nd match. It will be Samsonova against Bencic. The report will follow once it's completed.