MOSCOW — With Novak Djokovic sidelined, Russia took a 2-0 lead today over Serbia behind wins by Mikhail Youzhny and Nikolay Davydenko.

Youzhny rallied past Nenad Zimonjic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 in the opening singles match and Davydenko struggled past Viktor Troicki 6-1, 1-6, 6-3, 1-6, 6-2.

Djokovic was supposed to play Youzhny, but the Australian Open champion and his teammate Janko Tipsarevic withdrew because of the flu.

Zimonjic, a doubles specialist ranked No. 689, played his first competitive singles match since April.

Serbia captain Bogdan Obradovic said Djokovic had been sick for three days and had a fever. He said Djokovic would "probably" play doubles on Saturday.

Russian Marat Safin is doubtful for doubles because of a right calf strain.

Russia is unbeaten in 14 home series since 1995. The winner will play either Belgium or the Czech Republic in the quarterfinals in April.