BRINDISI, Italy -- Defending champion Russia beat Italy 4-1
in the first round of the Fed Cup world group on Sunday to advance
to the semifinals.
Elena Bovina clinched the victory with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-2 victory
over Maria Elena Camerin in reverse singles for a 3-1 lead.
Earlier, Elena Dementieva survived four match points in the
second set and rallied for a 4-6, 7-6 (2), 6-0 victory over
Francesca Schiavone.
Russia's Dinara Safina and Vera Douchevina capped the first
round with a 6-3, 7-5 win against Tathiana Garbin and Mara
Santangelo in doubles.
Russia will host the winner of the series between the United
States and Belgium.