US looks to surprise favourite Spain in Davis Cup

GIJON, SPAIN (AP) - Even without Rafael Nadal to contend with, the United States (US) is facing the very difficult task of beating favourite Spain to reach the Davis Cup final.

Defending champion Spain welcomes the Americans having won the last two ties between them. Spain hasn't lost on clay, or on home soil, in 13 years.

While the US has won its last four straight ties on clay, Spain has won 25 straight. Singles pair David Ferrer and Nicolas Almagro are a combined 21-1 on the surface, and have helped make Nadal's absence due to injury a minor issue for captain Alex Corretja.

American pair Jon Isner and Sam Querrey are a combined 6-7 on clay going into Friday's opening singles.