That was in some part down to yet another underwhelming performance by Mickelson, but the Spanish pairing quickly took control, and in the absence of inspiration from his partner, DiMarco's efforts proved fruitless.

Garcia maintained his superb Ryder Cup record in both foursomes and fourballs, while an out-of-sorts Mickelson only managed to make a solitary birdie at the 14th hole which came much too late to save a faltering American challenge. The result caused the break-up one of Tom Lehman's leading partnerships, with Mickelson teaming up with David Toms for the afternoon foursomes and DiMarco being left out until today.

Garcia and DiMarco exchanged birdies at the second and the third holes, but when Olazabal birdied the long fourth, Europe were never behind. They went two up at the short eighth when Olazabal rolled in a 15-footer, and they were three in front at the turn after Garcia holed from eight feet.

The lead increased to four up at the par-five 10th hole where Olazabal was once again on target, this time from 12 feet. Olazabal then had an opportunity to put the result beyond any doubt, but his birdie putt at the short 12th slipped past before Mickelson gave the USA a glimmer of hope when he birdied the 14th. The Spaniards were a combined total of six under par when Garcia got up and down from a bunker to match DiMarco's birdie at the par-five 16th for a convincing 3&2 victory.

KEY MOMENTS Best shot Garcia's second to eight feet at the ninth hole to set up a birdie and a three-hole lead at the turn.

Worst shot Exactly when the USA needed to exert some pressure, DiMarco hit a terrible drive down the right at the 13th hole and from there, his second found the water.

Turning point Three down after nine, it seemed that America would at last strike a blow and win the long 10th when DiMarco's third shot "nished eight feet from the hole. But Olazabal holed for a birdie, and DiMarco missed to leave his side four dow.

Man of the match Sergio Garcia (right).