US defeats Argentina; advances to World Group playoffs in April

Coco Vandeweghe of the United States, serves to Paula Ormaechea of Argentina during the women's singles match at the Fed Cup in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2015. The winner advances to the World Group playoffs April 18-19 with a chance for a spot in the 2016 World Group - the top grouping in the team competition. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd) (The Associated Press)

Paula Ormaechea of Argentina returns a ball against Coco Vandeweghe of the United States during the women's singles match at the Fed Cup in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2015. Ormaechea won the match 6-4 6-4. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd) (The Associated Press)

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – Venus Williams defeated Maria Irigoyen of Argentina 6-1, 6-4 on Sunday to advance the United States to the Fed Cup playoffs in April and a chance to return to the World Group, which comprises the top eight teams.

Williams' victory on outdoor clay gave the United States an unassailable 3-1 lead in the best-of-five World Group II tie.

Earlier Sunday Paula Ormaechea of Argentina defeated Coco Vandeweghe 6-4, 6-4. Vandeweghe filled in for Serena Williams, who did not play because of illness.

Venus and Serena gave the United States a 2-0 lead on Saturday, defeating Ormaechea and Irigoyen.

The Americans have won the Fed Cup title 17 times, more than any other nation, with the last victory in 2000.