Euro 2012: Spain beat France 2-0, face Portugal in semis

A brace from Xabi Alonso ensured that Spain sealed a place in the last four after overcoming France in their quarter final clash.

A brace from Xabi Alonso ensured that Spain sealed a place in the last four after overcoming France in their quarter final clash.

Euro 2012 Photos

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A brace from Xabi Alonso ensured that Spain sealed a place in the last four after overcoming France in their quarter final clash. (AFP Photo)

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France knew they were up against a tough opponent and decided to attack early on to try and push Spain on the defensive. (AFP Photo)

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It was a battle for ball possession as Spain played their traditional game of short passes while France tried to hamper the flow by marking key players. (AFP Photo)

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The tension could be felt among the players as both teams were unwilling to give an inch to the other side knowing fully well that there were no second chances in this game. (AFP Photo)

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The deadlock was broken by Xabi Alonso who entered unmarked into the box and his header was on target, beating the keeper and putting Spain ahead in the first half. (AFP Photo)

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The second half saw both teams up the ante as they looked to score. Both teams had their moments but couldnt find the back of the net. (AFP Photo)

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Fernando Torres looked threatening but could not go for goal and at one point it seemed that Spain might have to regret not capitalising on their lead. (AFP Photo)

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It was that man again, Xabi Alonso who sounded the death knell for the French when his spot kick found the target in the dying stages of the game. Spain managing to double their goal advantage and end France's hopes of a semi final berth. (AFP Photo)

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It was in the end a well deserved win for the Spaniards. The French definitely promised a lot but couldnt convert it into performance. They go home and the defending champions have a date with Portugal in the semi finals. (AFP Photo)

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