The first set started out very close, but halfway through Matsuo/Naito grabbed a five point lead at 16 – 11. The Japanese couple put on pressure, forcing the Danes to make mistakes. Towards the end of the set Frier/Juul fought back and were immediately rewarded with the support of the home crowd. The Danes equaled the score at 17 – 17, but at the end Matsuo/Naito once again took control and won the set 21 – 19.
The second set was close from the beginning as well, but again the japanese couple seemed to have the upper hand, as they controlled most of the rallies. Matsuo/Naito took a three point lead at 11 – 8, but the Danes made another good comeback bringing themselves in front 14 – 12. They managed to hold on to the lead and won the set 21 – 18.
Non of the couples were able to break away in the beginning of the third set. However, midway through the set Matsuo/Naito took a four point lead. Frier/Juul showed great fighting spirit and got back into the game. A thrilling third set ended with a 21 – 19 win for the second seed Danes.
After the match Frier/Juul told about the importance of playing in front of the home crowd. “It’s great playing here. The crowd really helped us through the match with their support. In this arena the atmosphere is amazing, because the crowd is so close to you,” they said.
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