Postiga: We gave our all

Helder Postiga believes his Portugal colleagues can return home with pride, despite their heartbreaking semi-final defeat to Spain at Euro 2012.

Cesc Fabregas scored the winning penalty in a shoot-out on Wednesday to dump Portugal out of the tournament at the penultimate hurdle, after Bruno Alves saw his attempt rattle the crossbar.

Postiga, who missed the match due to injury, feels their failure should not deflate spirits back home, as his side can now build on their experience in Poland and Ukraine.

“Portugal demonstrated a great desire to win but unfortunately the match was decided on penalties,” the 29-year-old told reporters.

“We didn’t have the luck of previous competitions but we have to keep our heads held high because the players gave their all on the field and brought honour to Portugal.

“This result and the campaign should make the Portuguese proud.

“Now it is time to carry on working, it’s time to recover and start thinking about the next challenge.”