D Cup QFs: And the Dream Dies, Again

Czech Republic 3 Argentina 2

It was always going to be a tough one. And realistically, the tie was probably lost when Pico couldn’t pull out that five-setter over Berdych on the first day. But you have to give it to the Argies, they fought to the end.

Elf did his bit, demolishing Berdych (who to be fair had played eight sets of tennis over the past two days) in straight sets, 64 64 64 for a bit of Tokyo revenge. But without Nalbandian, the tie came down to the fifth rubber, and with Pico vs. Stepanek, on an indoor fast court, it was really going to end only one way.

I thought Pico played well, but Steps was in control for the entire match, really. Yanking poor pretty Pico around like a puppet on a string.

So last year’s finalists are out and the Czech Republic are through to the semis, where they will face Croatia. Great result for them and a true team effort from Berdych and Stepanek, who picked up a doubles and a singles rubber each to send their country through. Good stuff.

As for Argentina … what can I say? I’m crushed.

Next year, boys.

Next year.