Xabi Alonso hails "phenomenal" win

Xabi Alonso has described his 100th international appearance as "phenomenal" after the Spain midfielder scored both goals in his country's 2-0 win over France.

The 30-year-old former Liverpool playmaker also completed 99 passes as the reigning world and European champions reached the last four at Euro 2012.

"The team was phenomenal and personally I am very satisfied with the two goals," said Alonso. "We didn't have that many chances but we completely controlled the match."

Spain's next challenge will be a semi-final encounter against Portugal, who will be led by Alonso's Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, in Donetsk on Wednesday.

"The most important step is the next one," added Alonso. "We know all about Cristiano. But we are not afraid.

"We are now in the semis and of course all the games at this stage are life and death."

Alonso's opener was the 20th headed goal of the tournament so far, which is one more than in any other previous European championships.