[published via SyndiGate.info, courtesy of Albawaba.com]

Bruno Alves of Portugal misses a penalty during the UEFA EURO 2012 semi final match between Portugal and Spain

Spain rode their luck as they earned the chance to defend their European title after beating Portugal on penalties (0-0 aet) Wednesday.

Spain will play the winner of Italy vs. Germany Sunday in the final of Euro 2012 as they hope to clinch an unprecedented Euro-World Cup-Euro trio of trophies.

Cesc Fabregas was the match winner, scoring off the post with the penalty after Bruno Alves missed Portugal’s fourth penalty. Both teams missed their first penalties, Xabi Alonso and Joao Moutinho, while Sergio Ramos evoked memories of Andrea Pirlo with a beautifully chipped Panenka penalty.

The two sides couldn’t be separated after 12 minutes forcing penalties. In open play, Portugal had done as good a job of suppressing Spain as any team has since they became European champions in 2008, although both sides struggled for legitimate chances.

Before the game, Portugal coach Paulo Bento had promised that Portugal would attack the Spanish, not park the proverbial bus and try and beat Spain at their own game.

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