Cristiano Ronaldo Penalty Kick: Portugal Head Coach Paulo Bento Explains Why the Real Madrid Star Didn?t Shoot Against Spain [Euro 2012]

Spain advanced to the final of Euro 2012 after a scoreless match against Portugal went to penalty kicks at Donestsk, Ukraine, on Wednesday.

Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas scored the deciding penalty after Portugal defender Bruno Alves hit the crossbar in the previous shot.

After the match, there were questions directed at Portugal's penalty-kick order. When questioned about his strategy to have Cristiano Ronaldo kick in the No. 5 spot, head coach Paulo Bento believes he still made the right decision in hindsight.

We had defined the plan, said Bento, through an interpreter, in a press conference. I don't lament anything.

Bento confirmed that Ronaldo would have been the fifth penalty-kick shooter.

The question of penalties could have been an advantage for us, said Bento.

Had Fabregas missed the final kick, Ronaldo would have been in position to put the pressure on Spain.

Ronaldo was seen muttering in frustration as Spain celebrated the victory.

It's possible that Bento's decision will cost the coach his job. Also, there are questions as to why Ronaldo, who is captain of the squad, didn't step in and take a shot after Portugal's first shooter, Joao Moutino, missed.

Ronaldo is regarded as one of the best penalty shooters in the world, and in shootouts it is often typical for a squad to use their most reliable shooter near the top of the order.

Spain will play the winner of Germany-Italy on July 1.