1st Set:
The Argentinian
pairing of Juan Martin del Potro and Leonardo Mayer started the match brightly
having a break point in the 3rd game after exchanging service holds
in the opening 2 games. Nevertheless, the solid Marin Cilic at the net allowed
the Croatian pair to save the break point and hold that service game. Both
pairings did not earn any other break point opportunities in the rest of the
set, and thus it went to a tiebreak. The Croatian pair started the tiebreak the
best way possible; hitting an ace on their second serve that was just 124 km/h,
and then winning both of Mayer’s service points to lead 3-0. The Croatian pair
then strolled through the tiebreak, losing just 2 points and winning the first
set 7-6.
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| The Argentinian pair reacts after a point. Photo by Reuters |
2nd Set:
The
Croatian pair earned their first break point opportunity in the first game of
the second set, but the Argentinian pair saved that break point and held their
serves. Nevertheless, the Croatian pair broke immediately in the next service
game for the first time with some amazing defence to lead by a set and a break.
The Croatian pairing kept their noses in front when they consolidated the break
with a comfortable hold of serve. The Argentinian pair broke back at 3-4, much
to the delight of the thousands of away fans. There were no more breaks of
serve, and thus once again, the set proceeded into a tiebreak. The Croatian
pair had a mini-break just at the start of the tiebreak, but the Argentinian
pair was too good and won both of their return points. The Croatian pair went
on a mini roll from 1-2, winning 3 straight points to lead 4-2. With the score
at 4-4, Mayer hit a volley into a net and gave Dodig the chance to serve for
the second set. The Croatian pair won both of their service points, and won the
set 7-6 to have a 2 set to love lead, and inch closer to a 2-1 lead in the tie.
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| The Croatian pair celebrates after winning a point. Photo by Reuters |
3rd Set:
The first
break of serve in the final set came in the 6th game, when the
Croatian pair once again drew first blood by breaking Mayer’s serve. This
allowed them to lead by 2 sets and a break, inching them closer to their 2nd
Davis Cup title. After that break of serve, there were no more breaks of serve
and therefore, the Croatian pair served out the match successfully.
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| The Croatian team celebrates after the crucial win. Photo by Reuters |
Marin Cilic on the home crowd:
"The atmosphere was absolutely fantastic as our fans carried us throughout the contest.”
Highlights of the match: