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Spain upset Argentina, win third Davis Cup title
Published on Mon, Nov 24, 2008 at 08:12, Updated on Mon, Nov 24, 2008 at 10:40 in Sports » Tennis section
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Mar Del Plata (Argentina): Who needs Rafael Nadal? Even without the top-ranked player, Spain won their third David Cup by beating Argentina on Sunday, thanks to Fernando Verdasco's five-set victory over Jose Acasuso.
Verdasco outlasted Acasuso 6-3, 6-7 (3), 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 before a boisterous Argentine crowd at Islas Malvinas Stadium. The fans went quiet as Argentina lost at home for the first time in 10 years in Davis Cup competition.
"It's the most exciting victory of my life," Verdasco said. "Playing for my country, against the best players, it's a dream."
Spain won their first Davis Cup title on the road, adding to victories against Australia in 2000 and the United States in 2004.
Verdasco, replacing David Ferrer in the reverse singles, overcame nine double-faults to beat a shaky Acasuso in three hours 56 minutes.
The 48th-ranked Acasuso was a late replacement for the injured Juan Martin del Potro, Argentina's top-ranked player at No. 9.
Argentina entered the heavy favourite after Nadal withdrew last week because of a knee injury.
"Nadal gave us several victories, and thanks to him we are here," Spain captain Emilio Sanchez Vicario said. "But the players who are here are the ones who deserve all the credit now."
After winning match point, Verdasco dropped to the ground in celebration and was embraced by his teammates.
"Spectacular," Nadal said on Spanish state television. "Sincerely, this is history."
Nadal said he would've loved to have been in Argentina to celebrate with his teammates.
"Moments like these, sharing them with your teammates are unforgettable," Nadal said. "They played a tremendous tie - it's time for them to enjoy it."
Verdasco recognised the efforts of other players who helped Spain reach the final, including Nadal, Tommy Robredo and Nicolas Almagro.
"We have to thank Rafa, Tommy, Almagro," Verdasco said. "It is thanks to them we are here."
Despite the support of nearly 10,000 fans, Acasuso was not able to keep up with Verdasco, who played well in the doubles win alongside Feliciano Lopez on Saturday. Acasuso served 14 aces, but had 47 unforced errors.
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Spain is turning into a formidable force in tennis, football, hockey and cycling. Congratulations.
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