The stage was set for a classic semi final with the best football team in the world on one side versus one of the greatest players to grace football on the other vying the coveted spot in the Euro 2012 Final. The game lived up to its reputation with both team fighting tooth and nail till the bitter end and eventually and penalty shootout was needed to settle the encounter in which Spain come out on top.
But the win did not show the true picture of the game as Portugal gave a right go at the world champions and Cristiano Ronaldo was in top form trying his utmost to make the telling contribution.
While on the other end Andres Iniesta squandered the best chance of the game with the goal keeper Rui Patricio making a good save to deny the Spaniard.
When after a goalless 120 minutes when the game reached penalties, Xabi Alonso stepped up first but his penalty was saved but so was the subsequent penalty taken by Joao Moutinho, Post that the next 5 penalties taken by Iniesta, Pepe, Pique, Nani and Ramos were scored.
But then Bruno Alves missed his spot kick and Cesc Fabregas decided the encounter with the decisive spot kick.
But this match will be remembered as of the few matches in which the Spanish team looked vulnerable to defend their 2008 crown but their know how guided them through to another Euro championship.
Final Score-
Spain vs Portugal: 0-0(4-2)
Lineups
Portugal starting lineup:- Rui Patricio, Joao Pereira, Pepe, Bruno Alves, Fabio Coentrao, Meireles, Veloso, Joao Moutinho, Nani, Almeida, Ronaldo
Spain starting lineup :- Casillas, Arbeloa, Pique, Sergio Ramos, Jordi Alba, Xavi, Busquets, Alonso, Silva, Negredo, Iniesta