Harel Levy beat Andreas Vinciguerra 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 3-6, 8-6 to decide the World Group first-round series in a near-empty arena.
Dudi Sela had even the series earlier Sunday by wearing out Thomas Johansson 3-6, 6-1, 4-6, 6-4, 6-2.
Vinciguerra saved two match points but botched a forehand to lose his serve and the final set. The jubilant Israeli team ran out on the court and hoisted Levy in the air.
In the previous match, Sela got so upset when he lost the third set he cracked his racket against the indoor carpet. The burst of anger appeared to energize the Israeli, who broke Johansson’s serve in the first game of the fourth.
Meanwhile, Johansson, playing his second match since October following heel surgery, was showing signs of fatigue. He struggled with unforced errors and lost the set when his backhand return went wide.
“I knew I had to play long points and keep him on the court as long as possible. I think it paid off,” Sela said.
Only about 300 invitees were allowed to watch the match because city officials said they couldn’t guarantee security at the venue. Critics, including the Israeli team, said Malmo was caving in to threats of violence from anti-Israel groups.
On Saturday, scores of rock-throwing protesters bent on stopping the match clashed with police in an attempt to storm the arena. Police apprehended nearly 100 people and arrested 10 of them on preliminary charges of rioting and assault. No injuries were reported.
Also on NBCSports.com
NFL: Crazy as it sounds, Bills take smart gamble
NBA: Home sweet home has its advantages | Images
Baseball: Manny's a knucklehead, but game needs him
College hoops: Big Dance could've used high-scoring VMI
College football: No rest in Red River Rivalry
