Portugal advance to Euro 2016 final

Portugal’s veterans Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani ended the Welsh adventure on Wednesday night at the Stade de Lyon. Ronaldo, 31, struck first. The Real Madrid star rose high over James Chester to head the ball past the Wales goalkeeper Wayne Hennessy.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored his third goal of the tournament as Portugal beat Wales 2-0 to move into the final on Sunday at the Stade de France. Reuters/Kai Pfaffenbach

Before Wales could regroup, Ronaldo drove the ball into the penalty area and Nani diverted it past a wrong-footed Hennessy.

It was the 29-year-old’s second goal of the tournament and the killer blow for Wales who had enjoyed ample amounts of possession but found penetration and clear cut chances limited.

“Naturally we’re disappointed to lose but we’re hugely proud of the journey that we been on,” said midfielder Joe Allen. “We have to thank the fans who have come to the matches and the ones back home who have been following us. It’s the stuff you dream of being involved in when you’re growing up.”

Portugal had done their homework. Coach Fernando Santos made light of the absence of defensive lynchpin Pepe by urging Joao Mario and Adrien Silva to form a shield either side of holding midfielder Danilo. The tactic denied space to Wales who were without the guile of suspended Aaron Ramsey and the dynamic surges from left back of Ben Davies.

The two goal burst between the 50th and 53rd minute contrasted sharply with the arid fare of the first 45 minutes.

“We didn’t let them create the chances they created against other teams,” said Portugal midfielder Vieirinha. “A lot of other sides let them have space and we didn’t. I think this was the key. They couldn’t play fast and couldn’t get into the areas behind the defence.”

Wales coach Chris Coleman concurred. “It was a tight match and we never found our rhythm and momentum. We have to give credit to Portugal. They defended very well and they killed the space. We found it very difficult to open the game up. The first goal was always going to be crucial and after it we just lost our concentration for a few minutes and when you’re up against the quality in this tournament especially the kind that Portugal have, you are going to get punished.”

Wales leave Euro 2016 having advanced further than all the pre-tournament predictions. Portugal, who have been far from scintillating, have confirmed their status as dark horses for the trophy and will play either France or Germany in the final on Sunday at the Stade de France.