Tennis-Davydenko breaks Chela jinx to put Russia ahead in cup

MOSCOW, Dec 1 (Reuters) Nikolay Davydenko beat Juan Ignacio Chela 6-1 6-2 5-7 6-4 in the opening match of the Davis Cup final today to give Russia a 1-0 lead over Argentina.

The world number three finally broke his jinx against Chela after losing all his five previous matches to the unheralded Argentine.

Davydenko dominated in the first two sets, breaking Chela twice in the opener and twice more in the second to go up 2-0 on the fast indoor surface at Moscow's Olympic arena.

The 33rd-ranked Argentine took the third set 7-5 after breaking his opponent in the 12th game when the Russian's backhand sailed wide on break point.

It was only a temporary reprieve as Davydenko regained control in the fourth set and wrapped up the match in just over three hours.

Russia's former world number one Marat Safin takes on Argentine number one David Nalbandian in the second singles rubber later today.

Russia are aiming to win their second Davis Cup title, following their triumph in 2002, while Argentina are chasing their maiden crown.

REUTERS SAM RK2028