Late substitute Julian Alonso saved face for Spain yesterday earning the visitors a last-chance point in the concluding reverse singles of the Davis Cup World Group semi-final in Stockholm which ended 4-1 for Sweden.
Alonso, the world number 63, beat Swedish debutant Thomas Johansson 6-1, 7-6 (7/3) but, despite the minor setback, Sweden powered into the December 4th-6th final against Italy, likely to be played in Milan.
The Italians stunned the United States in Milwaukee as the Americans were forced to field a second string team following withdrawals by Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi and Michael Chang. Italy booked its first final since 1980 by clinching a 3-0 lead after the doubles.
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