Ronaldo sends Portugal into Euro semi-finals

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Friday 22 June 2012

Ronaldo sends Portugal into Euro semi-finals

Late winner caps an outstanding performance from Cristiano Ronaldo against Czechs

  • Cristiano Ronaldo went close with an overhead effort for Portugal

  • Theodor Gebre Selassie had been outstanding in the group stages for the Czech Republic

Czech Republic 0-1 Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo scored a late winner as Portugal dominated the Czech Republic in the opening quarter-final tie at UEFA Euro 2012.

The Real Madrid winger produced an outstanding individual performance as Portugal enjoyed the best of the chances, but he had to wait until the 79th minute to score the decisive goal.

"We know it will be difficult next game but we are confident and ready for the fight"
- Cristiano Ronaldo

The ex-Manchester United star was a constant threat and was twice denied by the woodwork, while Portugal were also frustrated by Chelsea's Petr Cech, who excelled in goal for the Czechs.

But Ronaldo broke free to powerfully head home a Joao Moutinho cross from inside the area.

He had earlier seen a first-half effort come back off the post after he had turned brilliantly in the box and then glanced the outside of the upright with a free-kick shortly after the break.

Manchester United's Nani also threatened in the second half, having a shot saved by Cech and blasting narrowly off target for Portugal, but Ronaldo's effort proved the difference between the sides.

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Key Points

  • Ronaldo scored the winner with 11 minutes left of quarter-final
  • Real Madrid star was twice denied by the woodwork
  • Portugal will face either Spain or France in the last four of the tournament