UEFA Euro 2016, semifinal: Portugal beats Wales 2-0

July 8, 2016

On Wednesday, Portugal defeated Wales 2–0 in the UEFA Euro 2016 semifinal. This was the first time in this tournament Portugal won the match within 90 minutes of game play. Portuguese captain Cristiano Ronaldo led Portugal against Wales facing his Real Madrid teammate. Wales had better ball possession and passing accuracy than Portugal. Multiple attempts were blocked in the first half. The first half ended 0–0.

In the second half, Ronaldo scored a header from 's cross. Ronaldo's header was his third goal of the tournament. Three minutes later, Nani doubled the lead for the Portuguese from Ronaldo's assist. With a two-goal lead, Portugal got a chance to extend the gap in the 63rd minute from a free-kick. But Ronaldo's kick missed the target. None of Wales's attempts were fruitful, some blocked by the Portuguese defenders.

Portugal won the match, and Ronaldo was awarded the Man of the Match award. Portugal is to play France in the Final on July 10.

Ronaldo equaled President 's goal-scoring record in the tournament, netting his ninth goal. Ronaldo has scored in four Euro tournaments.