Verdasco, brought in to replace Spain's off-form number one David Ferrer, won 6-3, 6-7, 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 to hand Argentina their third defeat in three final appearances and their first home loss for 10 years.

Acasuso, ranked 48th, was playing in place of Argentina's number one Juan Martin del Potro who was ruled out with a pulled muscle in his right leg.

Argentina, unbeaten in 13 home matches, had begun as firm favorites but their chances nose-dived when Del Potro was surprisingly beaten by Lopez on Friday and injured his leg in the process.

A win in Saturday's doubles then put the visitors in the driving seat and the news that Del Potro would not play yesterday was another blow.

David Nalbandian brought Argentina the only point as he defeated David Ferrer on Friday.