Day 13

Czech Rep 0-1 Portugal

Portugal progressed to the final four of Euro 2012 after a hard fought 1-0 victory over the Czech Republic in Warsaw. The roof was closed at the National Stadium due to rain throughout the day, but it didn't stop Portuguese captain Cristiano Ronaldo from putting on a clinic to lead his side to the Semi Final's.

The Czech's had done superbly to qualify for the knockout phase of the competition, especially after they copped a 4-1 hiding in their first match. However they never looked like threatening the Portuguese, as they attempted to hold out for a scoreless draw.

Ronaldo was at the heart of every Portuguese move, and was unlucky not to put his side ahead on the stroke of half time. He brilliantly controlled a long pass on his chest, before turning his marker all in the same swift movement. He then shot against the base of Petr Cech's near post.

Portugal continued their domination after half time, as Ronaldo was again denied by the post. His free kick from 35 yards dipped and swerved before crashing against the frame of the goal.

The Czech's were becoming more and more fatigued as the match wore on, and you could see the strain on their faces as they continued to shut out waves of Portuguese attacks.

However Ronaldo was to eventually take advantage, heading home in the 79th minute. Joao Moutinho raced away down the right hand side before crossing into the middle. Ronaldo made a late run into the box and evaded his marker before powering a header past Cech and into the back of the net.

Portugal manager Paulo Bento made changes late in the match to sure up his defence, as he seemed content with taking a 1-0 win rather than pressing on for a second.

Portugal's impressive second half performance would be enough to instil the belief in their minds that they can go on to make their second Final in three attempts, however a hamstring injury to striker Helder Postiga won't help their cause.

The result in Warsaw will now see Portugal go through to a Semi Final against the winner of Spain v France, while the Czech Republic were knocked out with their heads held high and their pride in tact.