Jankovic battles to secure place in SF's; two of three Russians win in straight sets

As Day 5 of the Kremlin Cup in Moscow finished, three Russians and the current No. 1 entered the semifinals, after 3 out of four winners won their matches in straight sets.

Unseeded Nadia Petrova was the first Russian to lose on Friday, to compatriot No. 3 seed Elena Dementieva, 64 46 76(6).

"She changed tactics in the second set and started to play more aggressively," said the 26-year-old, who also beat Petrova in the quarters at Wimbledon. "It was not an easy match. There were many missed chances for me."

Dementieva will next face Jelena Jankovic, who secured a place in the semis after her straight sets win to Flavia Pennetta, 76(6) 63.

No. 5 seed Svetlana Kuznetsova had suffered a tough loss to countrywoman and No. 2 Dinara Safina, even though she, at some momemts led the match and lost, 64 75.

No. 7 seed Vera Zvonareva had a much better day than Svetlana, as she won her much in straight sets to Dominika Cibulkova, who dismissed Ana Ivanovic, 75 64.


Friday, October 10, 2008

Singles - Quarterfinals
(1) Jelena Jankovic (SRB) d. Flavia Pennetta (ITA) 76(6) 63
(2) Dinara Safina (RUS) d. (5) Svetlana Kuznetsova (RUS) 64 75
(3) Elena Dementieva (RUS) d. Nadia Petrova (RUS) 64 46 76(6)
(7) Vera Zvonareva (RUS) d. Dominika Cibulkova (SVK) 75 64