ARGENTINA: Spain claimed its third Davis Cup title since 2000 as Fernando Verdasco defeated Jose Acasuso 6-3, 6-7 (3-7), 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 to clinch a 3-1 victory over Argentina here Sunday night.

The winners managed to complete their trophy hat-trick in the worldwide team competition without the services of Rafael Nadal, out with a knee injury.

Spain came in as underdogs against the South Americans, who had chosen a fast indoor surface in anticipation of trying to nullify the clay skills of four-time French Open champion Nadal.

The victory ended the Argentine victory run at home at 13 straight ties. Spain become the seventh nation in the Cup's 108-year history to win three or more titles.

Spain won the Cup in 2004 over the US in Sevilla and in 2000 against Australia in Barcelona.