Paulo Bento tries to calm Cristiano Ronaldo criticism

Portugal manager Paulo Bento has come to the defence of national team captain Cristiano Ronaldo after the winger missed out on taking a penalty against Spain in the Euro 2012 semi-final clash.

The Real Madrid star has been accused by some for picking the fifth penalty in the list in order to grab the limelight against Spain in last night's battle, which ended in a shootout defeat for the Portuguese side.

A missed penalty from Bruno Alves denied Ronaldo the chance to take his place on the spot kick as Cesc Fabregas hammered home victory for the reigning champions.

"We had this plan," said Bento. "If it would have been 4-4 and he would have taken the last penalty, we would be talking in a different way."

Meanwhile, Germany and Italy will face off tonight for a spot in the final against Spain.