Xabi Alonso marked his 100th international appearance for Spain by scoring the two goals in his nation's victory over France in the Euro 2012 quarter finals. It was a fair result, but neutral observers and, perhaps, France might have expected better opposition.
During the first half, France looked out of sorts, with the exception of Frank Ribery who I thought played with passion. Spain got a goal and took a comfortable lead. France were lucky to go off at half time only 1-0 down.
The Spanish were passing the ball about and looked good, though they were not put to the test. In the second half France looked a little better and started to put some moves together. Again Frank Ribery of France looked good, but the rest of the team still seemed lacking as though there was no belief. Spain got a spot kick in injury time and Xabi Alonso converted the penalty to make it 2-0.
I think France has played much better on other occasions and we are yet to see a team put the Spanish defence to the test. They face Portugal next and I think this will be a dynamic encounter.
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