Moldova eyes Davis Cup upset with Albot's return
Moldova's top tennis player, Radu Albot, will make his long-awaited return to the national team for their upcoming Davis Cup play-off clash against Uruguay in February.
Albot, absent since 2016, expressed his commitment: "As soon as the boys qualified, I said I would play. Even with the distance, the decision was made."
His inclusion bolsters a squad featuring Alexandru Cozbinov, Ilie Snițari, and rising star Ilie Cazac, who'll share the court with his idol: "Playing alongside Radu is a dream come true." Captain Andrei Ciumac echoed the optimism: "Last year's promotion gives us hope for victory against Uruguay."
The tie, set for February 2-4 in Montevideo, presents a significant challenge. Despite Moldova's lower ranking, captain Ciumac remains cautious: "We play at their home, so underestimating them would be a mistake."
However, Moldova welcomes financial incentives proposed by president Ceslav Ciuhrii: "We'll reward each victory." The absence of Uruguay's top players, Pablo and Martin Cuevas, offers a glimmer of hope. As Albot acknowledges: "Their other members are younger and less experienced, but we must remain focused."
The winner earns a place in Davis Cup Group II, while the loser faces relegation. With Albot back in the fold, Moldova aims to defy expectations and continue their Davis Cup ascent.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
