Euro 2012 Semifinals: Portugal and Spain Sure to Be an Instant Classic

With all due respect to the intriguing Germany-Italy semifinal match, it is Portugal vs. Spain that will steal all the glory. 

These two teams are going to thrill fans with a few goals and an epic match—and a surprise winner.

That's right, Spain's reign of football dominance is about to meet its end, and it will come by the feet of Portugal.

Spain has cruised to the semifinals without suffering a loss, and their ball control and defense have looked as good as ever. However, their attack has been stymied for long stretches, and they are showing signs of vulnerability.  

Portugal will put those vulnerabilities on full display.

There are several keys to beating Spain, and it starts with attacking them down the outside. Portugal has plenty of talent to push the ball down the outside, and this talent all has the luxury of centering the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo, who is absolutely on fire. 

Ronaldo will have his work cut out for him to finish off plays, but there is no one better suited to pull this off than he is. 

Of course, none of this will be possible if Portugal does not have the ball, and therein lies the big problem.

It is hard to gain possession against Spain, and Portugal's central midfield is certainly not the team's strength. 

This means Portugal is going to have to make the most of their chances, and they will. Portugal will stake an early lead in this one. This will force Spain out of their comfort zone, and lead them to a more attacking nature. This will help them score, but it will also open up some holes in their defense. 

This is all going to lead to a fantastic, exciting and surprisingly high-scoring match, which Portugal will win, 3-2.