This weekend, the first round of the 2011 Federation Cup will be played.  We present our preview and analysis of the first round pairings.

Australia versus Italy
In Australia

Australia, which is back in the World group after a six year absence, may have a 5-0 record versus defending champion, Italy, but they last played in 1988 and these are very different teams.  Samantha Stosur will lead the Aussies against the two-time defending champions who are led by 2010 French Open champion, Francesca Schiavone and Flavia Pennetta.

Russia versus France
In Russia

Overall, Russia leads France 5-3 and has beaten the French team in their last two Ties in the 2004 and 2005 finals.  The Russians have won their last eight home ties and given the depth of the Russian team which is expected to include Svetlana Kuznetsova and Maria Sharapova, they should have the advantage although France did win their 2003 semifinal encounter which was also the Russians' last loss at home.

Slovak Republic versus Czech Republic
In Slovak Republic

The Czech Republic has been the more successful former member of Czechoslovakia having beaten the Slovaks, who are back in the World group for the first time in seven years, three straight times.  However, the Slovaks have won their last four home Ties.  Given that neither country has a “star player”, the player lineups, i.e. who is healthy and playing well, for this particular Tie will have a major impact on who will win.

Belgium versus United States
In Belgium

The Belgians are 1-5 versus the Americans, but their lone win was their only home Tie in the 2006 semis.  This tie originally had mega-star power potential, i.e. Serena Williams, Venus Williams, Kim Clijsters, Justine Henin were all possible competitors.  However,  2011 Australian Open champion, Kim Clijsters, will have all the spotlights on her this weekend.  Regardless, there will definitely be excitement given the strength of women’s tennis in Belgium with other talented players such as Yanina Wickmayer and Kirsten Flipkens also probably in the line-up.  The US team, which will include Melanie Oudin, Bethanie Mattek-Sands, Vania King and Liezel Huber, has won the Fed Cup more than any other country and reached at least the semis for the last six years, but it has lost the final in 2003, 2009 and 2010.