Billie Jean King Cup 2024: Emma Raducanu and Katie Boulter mix to ship Nice Britain into semi-finals in Malaga

Earlier than a ball was kicked on the Costa del Sol, Keothavong wasn’t afraid to speak about his facet’s probabilities of upsetting the percentages and lifting the trophy on Wednesday.

Whereas Keothavong’s facet attain the semi-finals on residence soil in Glasgow in 2022, there’s a totally different stage of perception given the firepower Britain possesses.

Raducanu and Boulter will likely be favorites to win their particular person semi-final matches, however Slovakia shouldn’t be underestimated after reaching the final 4 for the primary time since they have been topped champions in 2002.

America, regardless of being stripped of their high stars Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula, have been their first victims earlier than Australia have been eradicated on Sunday.

Viktoria Hruncakova, ranked 241 on this planet, gained 7-5 6-7 6-3 over Kimberly Birrell earlier than forty third ranked Rebecca Sramkova crushed Ajla Tomljanovic 6-1 6-2.

If Britain beat Slovakia, their remaining opponents will likely be both Poland or Italy – which reveals why they have been among the many pre-tournament favourites.

That is the place Britain will face essentially the most revered gamers.

Poland’s greatest menace within the match is five-time main champion Iga Swiatek, whereas Italy is led by world quantity 4 Jasmine Paolini, each of whom contributed wins in doubles.

“I positively would not be right here if I did not imagine we might win this match,” mentioned Boulter.

“We all the time have an excellent likelihood. We’ll proceed to imagine, proceed to belief, and proceed to take pleasure in it.

“I do not assume there’s any stress. We’re simply having enjoyable.”