Davis Cup holders Australia and 2002 winners Argentina are set to play off for a place in the final of the ATP world team cup after both countries won their matches.

Former Wimbledon champion Lleyton Hewitt produced a gritty performance to defeat Dutchman Martin Verkerk, keeping Australia on course for a place in the final.

Hewitt, 23, was steamrolled 6-1 by Munich Open finalist Verkerk in an opening set that lasted just 22 minutes.

However Hewitt fought back to level the match winning the second set 7-6 (7-2) in the tie-break.

"It took me time to get into the match," confessed Hewitt. "He was unstoppable in the first set and I just had to hang in there."

In the decisive set Hewitt, roared on by Belgian girlfriend and world number two Kim Clijsters, broke to go 6-5 up and held his nerve to serve out for the match at 7-5.

"I feel good and hopefully can raise my game for the French Open next week," added Hewitt.

Mark Philippoussis, 27, needed an equally determined display to defeat Dutchman Sjeng Schalken 4-6 7-6 (7-2) 7-5 to set up a showdown with Argentina.

Holland have exited the competition without winning a singles match after losing 3-0 to Argentina in their first tie.

Argentine Juan Ignacio Chela continued his fine form to defeat American Vincent Spadea 6-3 3-6 6-4.

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