Billie Jean King Cup: Netherlands upset Spain in Billie Jean King Cup Finals group stage

Kiki Bertens and Arantxa Rus secure crucial wins for the Dutch

The Netherlands upset Spain in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals group stage on Monday, with Kiki Bertens and Arantxa Rus securing crucial wins for the Dutch.

Bertens, the world number 10, defeated Paula Badosa 6-4, 6-3 in the opening singles match, while Rus upset Garbiñe Muguruza, the world number 3, 7-6 (7-4), 6-4 in the second singles match.

The Netherlands will now face the Czech Republic in the semi-finals on Thursday, while Spain will face the United States in the other semi-final.

Bertens and Rus star for the Netherlands

Bertens and Rus were both in excellent form on Monday, with Bertens winning her match in straight sets and Rus coming from behind to defeat Muguruza.

Bertens broke Badosa's serve three times in the first set and twice in the second set, while Rus broke Muguruza's serve four times in the second set to complete the upset.

The Netherlands will now be confident of reaching the final of the Billie Jean King Cup Finals for the first time.

Spain's hopes dashed

Spain were the favorites to win the Billie Jean King Cup Finals, but their hopes were dashed by the Netherlands on Monday.

Muguruza's defeat to Rus was particularly disappointing, as she was the highest-ranked player in the tournament.

Spain will now have to regroup and focus on winning the third-place play-off on Saturday.