Oliveira proud of Portugal effort

Nelson Oliveira feels Portugal were equal to Spain in Wednesday’s Euro 2012 semi-final defeat, and said his country can hold their heads high.

Neither of the two sides could find the net during 120 minutes of play, but the reigning European and world champions eventually booked their place in Sunday’s final after Cesc Fabregas scored the decisive penalty in the shoot-out.

“We played well and we were equal to Spain. Sadly, we didn’t get the win that we wanted,” the Benfica striker said.

“We obviously feel a great sadness. We wanted to go through to the final and we didn’t make it. We’re sad but at the same time we can hold our heads high because we are dignified in our defeat.

“We did everything we could to win and unfortunately we were unable to do so, but we come away proud.”

The 20-year-old came off the bench in the 81st minute, but was unable to break the deadlock.