However, Sramkova, Hruncakova and Mihalikova had other ideas and it was Slovakia who advanced to Wednesday’s final where Italy, who defeated Poland on Monday in the first semi-final, await.
“This is a special moment for our country, for our players and for tennis in Slovakia,” captain Matej Liptak said. “It’s so many years since we won it – and we’ve only won it once.
“But today it’s real and we are just one step from the biggest victory this team has had. We will try to enjoy it tomorrow but, for now, we are unbelievably happy. The team is unbelievably happy, and we are enjoying the moment.
“All my girls will be legends now. Even if they don’t finish it tomorrow, this is a really special moment for them and for our country. Everyone will know who was in this team. But we will try to go one more match.”
Slovakia reached their only previous Billie Jean King Cup final in 2002 when they shocked tennis by being crowned world champions after defeating Spain 3-1 in a final held in Gran Canaria.
Daniela Hantuchova was the star of the show back then and the modern-day vintage now have the chance to follow in the footsteps of those who achieved something that remains an enormous source of national pride.