ZHUHAI, China (AP) — The United States finished first in its group and secured a spot in the eight-team Davis Cup finals by beating Germany 2-1 on Saturday.
Both teams came into this tie unbeaten and had already qualified for the Finals, but knew that victory would ensure they are one of the seeds in the quarter-finals in Malaga against one of the second-placed teams from the other three groups being played in Manchester, Bologna and Valencia this week.
The United States quickly assured it would be that nation by winning both of its singles matches in Zhuhai, China. Reilly Opelka rallied to beat Henri Squire 6-7 (4), 7-6 (9), 6-3 before Brandon Nakashima eased past Maximilian Marterer 6-4, 6-2.
But the Americans suffered their first loss when Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram fell 6-1, 7-6 (4) to Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz.
Finland will then hope to capitalise on their slim chances of progress when they face Argentina in Group D in Manchester. Group A is also slightly tied before Belgium take on Brazil in Bologna.
France will face the Czech Republic in Valencia after both teams were eliminated.
Four groups are competing in four different cities this week as they look to secure a ticket to the eight-team Finals in Malaga, Spain in November. The top two teams from each group will advance.
