Spain reach Euro 2012 final after nail-biting Portugal penalty shoot-out

STV

Spain will defend their European Championships title in the Kiev final after a nerve-wracking penalty shoot-out with Portugal.

Missed spot kicks by Joao Moutinho and Bruno Alves meant that Xabi Alonso's own miss counted for nothing after a goal-less draw in Donetsk.

The game had been a close encounter, with goalmouth incidents at a premium with the midfields of either side dominating proceedings.

Spain boss Vicente Del Bosque pulled a surprise with his line up, Alvaro Negredo starting up front for the first time in the tournament. Portugal had Hugo Almeida in the striker position for the injured Helder Postiga.

The Portuguese edged the first half, with their midfield trio of Miguel Veloso, Raul Meireles and Moutinho shutting down the space where Spain traditionally dictate matches.

Paulo Bento's side attacked through their wingers of Nani and Cristiano Ronaldo, the latter of which hit the side netting with a smart turn and shot on 31 minutes.

Del Bosque ran out of patience with the ineffective Negredo after 53 minutes, throwing on Cesc Fabregas as the 'false nine' attacker. David Silva's frustrating day was ended on the hour as Jesus Navas entered the field to try and stretch the play from the right flank.

A Xavi shot flew down Rui Patricio's throat in the 68th minute before an excellent chance on the break was wasted by Ronaldo.

The game however was being strangled in the middle, with both teams unable to sustain pressure in the final third. In extra time Spain began to dominate as Portuguese legs tired and Iniesta pulled a fantastic save out of Patricio.

The match perhaps deserved a penalty shoot-out as no team could fashion a true break-through. Alonso initially gave the Portuguese hope, but it was not to be for Ronaldo and his compatriots.

Now Spain await the winners of Germany v Italy to discover who they will face on Sunday.

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