Spain have put France to the sword to book a Euro 2012 semi-final meeting against Portugal.

 

Les Bleus were expected to present La Roja with a stern test, but Laurent Blanc’s men struggled to make an impression against Vicente del Bosque’s team and slipped to a 2-0 defeat.

 

Spain scored after just 19 minutes through Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso and quickly began to dominate the contest.

 

France rarely presented a threat and the introduction of Samir Nasri and Jeremy Menez in the 64th minute had little effect.

 

Blanc then threw on Olivier Giroud with ten minutes to go, but no way through could be found and Spain were presented with the perfect opportunity to secure victory in the final minute when a penalty was awarded.

 

And up stepped Alonso to convert from the spot to make it 2-0.

 

Spain will now play neighbours Portugal for a spot in the Euro 2012 final.

 

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