Argentine substitute Leonardo Mayer has denied holders Britain a second straight Davis Cup final appearance with a 4-6 6-3 6-2 6-4 defeat of Dan Evans, clinching a 3-2 upset win in the World Group semi-finals.
World No.114 Mayer came good for the visitors after ironman Andy Murray levelled at 2-2 while running on fumes on Sunday as he as he kept Britain in the chase 6-3 6-2 6-3 over Guido Pella.
Evans was no match for Mayer who handed the Briton a 12th Davis Cup loss in two and three-quarter hours.
"I am very emotional. I haven't been able to play because of (shoulder) injury so I am delighted to be back on form," the Mayer said.
"I don't know what it is about the Davis Cup it brings out the best in me."
Mayer, substituting for Juan Martin del Potro - out of gas after logging more than 10 hours on court from singles and doubles - likely could have gone further after winning the longest ever Davis Cup singles match in 2015 in six hours and 43 minutes.
Murray lost in opening singles to Del Potro but teamed up with his brother to give Britain the doubles point.
The Argentines will travel to Croatia for the November 25-27 final after Marin Cilic assured his side of only its second final appearance.
The former US Open winner clinched the victory as he thrashed Richard Gasquet of France 6-3 6-2 7-5, hammering 14 aces and producing 21 winners.
France's Lucas Pouille then defeated Marin Draganja in the dead fifth rubber to make the winning score 3-2.
"When you look at the atmosphere, it's an incredible feeling. It's been a dream weekend for us," Cilic said.
"I played incredible tennis. I produced a great performance for all the crowd. I can't be more proud than right now.
"We have always been playing well in Davis Cup. It's something that's in your heart. It was a tough tie but this wonderful crowd inspired us.
"We can now look forward to what should be a great final."
