Mexico Looking for a Miracle : Tennis: United States is overwhelming favorite in Davis Cup matches at La Costa this weekend.

CARLSBAD —  If the Davis Cup were the Super Bowl, this would be the 49ers vs. the Broncos. But two members of Mexico’s team don’t seem to mind the long odds they face in their matches against the United States.

In fact, they said Tuesday that the wrong team is favored.

“I think we’re going to win,” Mexico’s Leonardo Lavalle said. “Why? Because I think they are feeling a little bit of pressure, you know?”

The U.S. team is expected to make short work of Mexico in a first-round matchup at La Costa that begins Friday and concludes Sunday. Brad Gilbert and Jay Berger will play singles, and the doubles team of Rick Leach and Jim Pugh will make its Davis Cup debut.

Nevertheless, Jorge Lozano believes that he and Lavalle have a much better shot than many believe.

“I think we will win,” said Lozano, who was a teammate of Leach at USC for two years. “The pressure is all on them. I think they have to win to, you know, prove themselves. Our experience is an advantage, too.”

What does Berger know about the Mexicans?

“I know they definitely speak a different language,” Berger said. “Nah, I know they’re great players.”

The rankings reflect a landslide advantage for the United States. Gilbert is No. 4 in the world and Berger No. 11. Lavalle is No. 135 and Lozano No. 351.

Lozano and Lavalle, while not doubles partners on the ATP Tour, have played six Davis Cup matches together and are 3-3. They are also expected to play singles.

The winner of this weekend’s match will play either Czechoslovakia or Switzerland in Europe March 30-April 1.

While the United States is regarded as an overwhelming favorite to advance to the second round, team Captain Tom Gorman said Mexico is a formidable opponent.

“I know it sounds like a cliche, but it’s true--you can throw out the records and rankings at Davis Cup time,” Gorman said. “And I’m not trying to do a Lou Holtz and blow smoke and then go out and beat somebody, 88-0, either.

“Their guys are capable,” he said. “We are not taking them lightly.”