Federer has lost just three matches in 2005

Federer, playing his first match for six weeks following an ankle injury, came through 6-3 2-6 6-4 in the futuristic Qi Zhong Stadium.

Ivan Ljubicic beat Guillermo Coria 6-2 6-3 in Sunday's second red group match.

The gold group of Rafael Nadal, Andre Agassi, Gaston Gaudio and Nikolai Davydenko begins on Monday.

After fighting back from 0-40 in the third game the understandably rusty Federer looked on course for a quick win when he broke in game six and took the first set.

RED GROUP Roger Federer Guillermo Coria Ivan Ljubicic David Nalbandian

But Nalbandian, who had been planning a fishing holiday before being called up as a replacement, won 16 of 19 points as he stormed through the second.

And the inspired Argentine broke again to go 3-1 up in the decider and seemingly close on a shock win.

I don't see myself winning too many matches on this surface - it's like playing on ice Guillermo Coria

Federer had other ideas, however, and reeled off five of the last six games to take the match.

"I took the opportunity he gave me," said Federer. "I had no expectations. I was mentally ready for a two-sets defeat.

"This is one of the better moments in my career. To come back from the worst injury I've ever had and to win a match at the Masters Cup is very special for me."

GOLD GROUP Rafael Nadal Andre Agassi Nikolay Davydenko Gaston Gaudio

He added: "I was just getting a little bit worried but the more matches I play... maybe it's even good it was a three-setter so I really got to get even more match play.

"I will play better. I'm very sure the next match will be better. To start with a win in my group, that's definitely a great cushion to have."

The second match of the day always looked like being one-sided as Ljubicic's recent indoor form has been as good as Coria's has been poor.

So it proved as the Croatian sealed his 19th win in 23 indoor matches with an ace.

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"I think I played a great match," said Ljubicic. "Especially in the first set, everything went my way.

"My goal is to qualify for the semi-finals. I have two more matches to go. Perhaps if I win one, I can go through."