CRISTIANO Ronaldo, the world’s most expensive player, hit the woodwork twice on an initially frustrating evening, but crowned Portugal’s dominant second-half performance with his third goal of the tournament, nodding a Joao Moutinho cross into the net.

“It was a fantastic game for Portugal,” said the man of the match last night. “In the first 20 minutes we weren’t that good, but then we improved a lot. We had a lot of opportunities. The Czechs didn’t have any – that’s a great game. I think the chances (of reaching the final) are 50-50 and we just have to believe in it.

“The team is mature and we are ready for the next game. The last game I hit the post twice, again today but it was important that I scored and the team played very good and everyone is happy. Big smiles all round.”

Manchester United winger Nani said: “It was a difficult game. Everyone was fantastic on the pitch and it was a great performance by the players. All the team is confident about the next game. Ronaldo scored the goal, we won the game and that is the most important thing.”

Czech Republic coach Michal Bilek added: “Well we knew this was going to be very difficult. Portugal have a great attack. In the second half, we lost our strength and our energy and one situation was enough to decide (the match).”