Czechs take narrow lead

The Czech duo fought back from a set down in the Belgrade Arena to win 3-6 6-1 6-4 6-1 after two hours and 38 minutes, staying on course to reach their second successive final.

Although they faced world doubles number three Zimonjic and fit-again Djokovic, the Czechs showed remarkable composure in a raucous atmosphere to outclass the home team.

"We are extremely happy and proud with our small but frenetic band of supporters, who account as the unofficial fifth player in our team," Berdych said.

"They got behind us and played a telling part in this win, although they were outnumbered by thousands of home fans who are just as passionate."

Zimonjic opened the encounter with an ace but served poorly throughout the contest, dropping four serves, including three in a row midway through the match.

US Open finalist Djokovic, back in action after pulling out of the opening singles rubbers on Friday through fatigue and illness, looked much the sharper home team player but could not stop an avalanche of stinging shots from the Czechs.

Roared on by their fans sporting trumpets, drums and Czech flags, Berdych and Stepanek produced a flurry of accurate volleys and passing shots on the hardcourt surface.

Berdych was particularly lethal in placing forehand winners between the two Serbian players while Stepanek served superbly and produced a barrage of outstanding returns.

The Serbians, chasing their first final after reaching the competition's top tier in 2008, have a tough task of turning the tie with Djokovic taking on Berdych in Sunday's opening reverse singles while Janko Tipsarevic meets Stepanek.

Berdych, who beat Djokovic in this year's Wimblewdom semis before losing to Rafael Nadal, was confident he could repeat the feat against the Serb.

"The heat is now on them because we are 2-1 up and all the pressure will be on Djokovic tomorrow, that's good for me and I think I have a good chance," Berdych said.

"We are in a great position to win the tie and we just have to keep fighting for every point."

The winners will play France, who clinched the other final berth on Sunday after winning the doubles to take an unassailable 3-0 lead against Argentina.