Nadia Petrova proved the inspiration as Russia came from behind to defeat USA 3-2 and reach the final of the Fed Cup.
After Venus Williams had disposed of Anna Chakvetadze in straight sets to give the Americans a 2-1 advantage, Petrova hit back with victory over Meilen Tu in Sunday's second singles match before teaming up with Elena Vesnina to post a decisive 7-5 7-6 (7/1) win against Williams and Lisa Raymond and clinch the semi-final encounter at Topnotch`s hardcourt.
With the triumph, Russia advanced to the Fed Cup final for the seventh time and third in the last four years. The Russians won consecutive titles in 2004 and 2005.
Russia will face Italy in the final after the defending champions beat France 3-2 in the other semi-final in Marina.
After France's Amelie Mauresmo had defeated Mara Santangelo 6-7 (5/7) 6-0 6-4, the home team levelled at 2-2 when Francesca Schiavone beat Tatiana Golovin 6-4 2-6 7-5.
Schiavone and Roberta Vinci then completed the comeback in the doubles , rallying from down a set to record a 4-6 6-1 6-2 triumph over Severine Bremond and Nathalie Dechy.
