Israel experienced Davis Cup heartbreak as they were beaten 3-2 by Argentina in their World Group playoff match against Argentina.

In a match moved to Florida due to the security situation in Israel, Israel led 2-1 after Day One, but Argentina won both singles matches on Day Two to progress.

Having levelled the contest at 2-2, Carlos Berlocq completed the comeback saw off Israel’s world No. 776, Bar Botzer, in a deciding fifth rubber winning, 6-2, 6-3, 6-0, to ensure his side remains in the Davis World Group next year.

Earlier, Leonardo Mayer put Argentina in front following a four-set win over Botzer. Sela levelled things up after beating Berlocq.

Doubles specialists Andy Ram and Jonathan Erlich put Israel 2-1 up with thrilling five-set win over Federico Delbonis and Horacio Zeballos.

A straight sets win for Mayer over Sela left Botzer needing to win but he simply had no answer to the power of Berlocq and it was Argentina who were celebrating at the end.

Defeat confirmed Israel will remain in Europe/Africa Zone Group I for another year and they have been drawn away to Romania.
Head coach Eyal Ran confirmed that he will start rebuilding his squad.

"The next two years could be tough," he said. "We have some good young players who need to come through but for sure we will need to think of the transition that we will need to make soon."