Even without US Open winner Carlos Alcaraz, Spain’s Davis Cup team successfully cleared the first hurdle in the competition.
Against the Serbs, who were without Novak Djokovic, Spain were already 2-0 ahead of the doubles thanks to singles wins by Albert Ramos Vinolas and Roberto Bautista Agut. Ramos Vinolas defeated Laslo Djere 2-6, 7-6 (7-5), 7-5. Bautista Agut won against Miomir Kecmanovic 7: 6 (7: 5, 7: 6 (7: 5).
Italy prevailed against Croatia after victories in singles by Lorenzo Musetti and Matteo Berrettini. Musetti laid the foundation in Bologna with a 6: 4, 6: 2 against Borna Gojo, the former Wimbledon finalist Berrettini had more problems at least initially with 6: 7 (4: 7), 6: 2, 6: 1 against Borna Coric .
The two best teams in each group qualify for the final tournament in Malaga at the end of November. Germany had won their opening duel against France 2-1.