Spain have knocked Portugal out of Euro 2012 in a keenly contested semi-final in Donetsk.

 

Portugal appeared to have got their tactics against the European and world champions spot on, and quickly pressured La Roja whenever they had the ball.

 

The first half saw some impressive Portugal play, while Spain continued to stumble and look a shadow of themselves in the second; extra time however saw Vicente del Bosque’s men flourish and push hard to find a winner – but it did not arrive.

 

And that meant a penalty shootout to decide who would head to Kyiv.

 

Portugal received an early boost as Xabi Alonso missed Spain’s first spot-kick, but Joao Moutinho instantly then missed for Paulo Bento’s side.

 

Both sides then converted two each, before Sergio Ramos stroked home Spain’s third.

 

Up stepped Bruno Alves to level the scores, but he blasted against the crossbar, leaving Cesc Fabregas a chance to win the shootout for Spain.

 

And he did not disappoint, ensuring that Cristiano Ronaldo did not even get the chance to take a spot-kick as La Roja won 4-2 on penalties.

 

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