Japan lost its first two matches against Argentina as their Fed Cup, World Group II fixture got under way on Saturday in Buenos Aires.
Kurumi Nara fell 6-7 (7-9), 6-4, 6-4 to Maria Irigoyen to open the best-of-five, first-round tie on red clay at the Pilara Tennis Club. Misaki Doi also lost in three sets, going down 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 to Paula Ormaechea.
Sunday will see the reverse singles and the doubles.