The Czech Republic defeated the United States 3-2 in a Davis Cup qualifying tie in Prague on Saturday, with Jiri Lehecka clinching the victory by beating world number 13 Learner Tien 6-3, 7-5 in the deciding rubber. It marks the second consecutive year the Czechs have eliminated the Americans at the same stage, with Jakub Mensik's comeback win over US Open runner-up Ben Shelton proving equally crucial by forcing a fifth match. The result ends another American campaign without a Davis Cup title — their last came in 2007 — while the Czech Republic advance to the eight-team Finals in Bologna in November, where hosts Italy will seek a fourth straight championship.