Euro 2012 Semifinals: Why Spain Will Beat Portugal

Spain will beat Portugal in the UEFA Euro 2012 semifinals.

The matchup of these Iberian peninsula rivals will be heavily anticipated, but in the end, Spain will advance to the finals.

There are a few reasons why Spain will come out victorious.

DEFENSE:

Spain has been playing solid defense all tournament long. Gerald Pique and Sergio Ramos have been terrific, while keeper Iker Casillas has made the key saves when needed.

Spain has allowed only one goal all tournament. Even more impressive, they haven't given up a goal in their last 299 minutes of play.

Of course, the Spanish defense will have to contend with Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo, but since he's Portugal's only real threat, Spain will focus all of their efforts on stopping him.

PASSING:

Spain is known for its terrific passing game and it will cause the Portugal defense nightmares. Alonso and Xavi have teamed up to make beautiful music all tournament long and Andrés Iniesta puts stress on a defense with his speed. Xavi has completed more passes than anyone in the tournament. 

Spain will use their ball control game to keep it away from Ronaldo. Because Spain holds onto the ball for so long, Ronaldo will have a tough time getting chances. 

HISTORY:

Spain is 16-12-6 all time against Portugal, including a 1-0 victory in the 2010 World Cup. Can Portugal overcome that? Not likely. Portugal did beat Spain 4-0 in a friendly last year. However, this time, it's for the Euro 2012 Finals, not an exhibition. 

Want more history? In eight knockout games between the Euro and World Cup, Spain has not allowed a goal. Casillas will be strong. 

PREDICTION:

Spain doesn't have anyone like Ronaldo, but they have a better defense and more playmakers. Portugal's goalie, Rui Patricio, is shaky at best. Ronaldo will be held in check and Iniesta will continue his hot tournament and put one through.

Final score: Spain 2, Portugal 0