By Fitzgerald Cecilio

Warsaw, Poland

Cristiano Ronaldo scored in the second half as Portugal edged the Czech Republic, 1-0 to gain a place in the semifinals of the Euro 2012 at Poland National Stadium.

Ronaldo headed the ball into the net off a nice cross from Moutinho in the 79th minute to send the Navigators into a tasty semis showdown against the winner of Spain-France quarterfinals match.

After a scoreless first half, Portugal sped up the pace and attacked the box more aggressively in the second half.

Portugal racked up 15 of its 20 shots in the second half, including Ronaldo's brilliant goal that prompted the crowd into frenzy.

The Real Madrid striker has scored three goals in the last two games after being criticized for his listless start at 2012 Euro.

The Czechs though had a hard time penetrating Portugal defense as they finished the game with two shots.

Ronaldo sends Portugal into semi-final

Cristiano Ronaldo edges a step closer to winning his first major piece of silverware with Portugal as he scores the only goal in the 1-0 win against the Czech Republic to reach the Euro 2012 semi-final

 

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