World number one Rafael Nadal and the Spanish media praised Spain's Davis Cup squad after they beat hosts Argentina to land their third triumph on Sunday as Fernando Verdasco saw off Jose Acasuso in five sets.

Nadal, who knows what it takes to win the competition after his stellar showing brought a 2004 final win over the United States in Seville, had hoped to pocket another winners' medal but a knee injury sustained in Paris at the back end of a marathon season saw him miss out.

Instead, Nadal told Spanish television he was proud of his compatriots who made light of his enforced absence at Mar del Plata.

"I couldn't be happier, it's an unforgettable moment and they have made history," enthused Nadal following Spain's first final success away from home.

In 2000, Spain had captured their maiden title against Australia in Barcelona and then saw off the Americans four years later in Andalusia — but with no Nadal on board, and with the Argentine crowd to contend with, this time had been a tougher call.

"Fernando was brilliant, absolutely amazing from the fourth set. (Skipper) Emilio (Sanchez Vicario) has formed a tremendous group with a fabulous atmosphere at its heart," said Nadal, who instead of Davis glory settled for taking the number one slot from Roger Federer after winning Roland Garros and Wimbledon, as well as the Olympics.

Spanish media were equally effusive in lauding the champions.

"The invincible armada," trumpeted the online edition of sports daily AS.

"The Spanish armada won their first Davis Cup away in a pulsating encounter in which the Spanish pushed themselves to the limit following the late (injury) withdrawal of Rafael Nadal, and showed they are a fearsome squad," added AS.

"Spanish miracle" was how El Mundo saw the win.

"The salad bowl is ours, an incredible final," boasted sports daily Marca in noting that (skipper) Emilio (Sanchez Vicario) and his boys silenced the fervent blue and white crowd" of home fans.

Verdasco and Feliciano Lopez, both mere journeymen on the men's circuit to date, were the heroes as they not only won singles encounters after David Ferrer had been blown away on day one by Argentine star David Nalbandian but also landed Saturday's doubles.

AFP

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