Canada falls short in Billie Jean King Cup finals bid as doubles defeat to Japan ends their title defence hopes in Tokyo.
Canada falls short in Billie Jean King Cup finals bid after a 2-1 loss to Japan in Tokyo, ending their defence of the title.
The Canadian team took an early lead through teenage star Victoria Mboko but lost control of the match when Japan won the crucial double play.
The team received a powerful beginning from their 18-year-old player Victoria Mboko who defeated Ena Shibahara in an intense 6-4, 6-7(8), 7-5 match.
This Canadian player stood strong through multiple match points before achieving victory in the seventh point during her intense fight.
Japanese player Moyuka Uchijima tied the series by beating Marina Stakusic 6-3 6-3 while maintaining complete dominance through a 13-point winning streak in the first set.
The singles victory propelling Canada forward was followed by the defeat of Canadian duo Kayla Cross and Rebecca Marino by Shuko Aoyama and Ena Shibahara in an intense match that concluded 6-3, 5-7, 6-2.
Victoria Mboko helped Japan achieve consecutive Billie Jean King Cup finals berths while eliminating Canada from defending their championship title.
The Canadian team performed successfully because Mboko delivered strong competition while setting a positive foundation for upcoming international matches.