Euro 2012 Quarter-Final: Spain 2-0 France

Spain will meet Portugal in the Euro 2012 semi-final after Xabi Alonso scored two goals against France, in a rather one-sided match in the Donbass Arena, Donetsk. This clash between two of Europe's heavyweights made for one of the most exciting draws of the tournament, but on the night France failed to put up much of a battle and Spain comfortably progressed to the next round.

Spain should have been awarded a penalty after Cesc Fabregas was brought down by Gael Clichy, but Italian referee Nicola Rizzoli waved play on, dismissing the Spanish appeals. The infuriated Spanish team stepped up the pace and Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso put the defending champions one up in the 19th minute, heading in a cross supplied by Jordi Alba. Alonso and Iniesta created many problems for the French team in midfield, and Alba and Arbeloa kept them from penetrating the Spanish penalty area. Iker Casillas did tip over the bar a well hit free kick by French midfielder, Yohan Cabaye.

France seemed to improve when they came out for the second half, but the quality of the Spanish side to keep possession and pass the ball seemed to demoralise the French team. The game was all but over, when in the 91st minute Spain substitute Pedro was brought down by Anthony Reveillere in the area, and Alonso stepped up to secure the game 2-0 and celebrate his 100th appearance for the Spanish side.