Vladimir Ivanov and Ivan Sozonov are ready to face Takeshi Kamura and Keigo Sonoda in the second round.

Vladimir Ivanov and Ivan Sozonov made a good performance in the opening match at the World Championships beating the Malaysian pair, Arif/Azriyn in straight games.

- It was a very good performance for us. It was two tough games against a Malaysian pair. It is an important result for us because it is an Olympic year, Vladimir Ivanov said.

- The points are important for us, and we hope to win the second round.

The good attack
Most players say that the venue in Basel is slow. A slow venue normally suits the Russians.

- It is good arena, Ivanov said.

- I do not think a lot about the shuttles. First five-six shots they are fast, but from there they are slow. For us it is okay. We have a good attack, especially when they play the middle of the court, Sozonov added.

Good confidence
In the second round the Russians will play Kamura and Sonoda from Japan – two players that love to attack.

- There are no surprises. We lead the head-to-head 3-1 and it will for sure be a good result for us if we win, Ivanov mentioned.

- Last time we lost at the Denmark Open, and we want revenge. Our confidence and feeling are good and we feel better than in Denmark, so I hope that we can show a good fight, Sozonov added.

At the Denmark Open 2018 the Japanese won in straight games 27-25 21-10.