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UEFA Euro 2016: Cristiano Ronaldo Guides Portugal 2-0 Past Gareth Bale and Wales, Ends Welsh Dream to Reach Final

And it all comes to an end.

Portugal won its semifinal match against Wales, 2-0, with two second-half goals, ending the Welsh team's fairytale run in Euro 2016.

Chris Coleman's side has not seen a major tournament since 1958, and the semifinal match against Portugal follows an emotional 3-1 victory over Belgium.

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Ronaldo outshines Real Madrid mate

With many expecting an epic battle between Real Madrid stars Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo, it was the Portugal captain who shone the brightest.

At the 50th minute, Ronaldo put his team ahead with a thumping header from inside the penalty box. Three minutes later, his shot from 25 meters out was guided by Nani past Wales goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey to put Portugal 2-0.

Ronaldo's latest goal equaled Michel Platini's record of nine goals in the UEFA European championship.

Strong start, weak finish for Wales

It was a brilliant first half for the Welsh, and Bale even had a chance to score a magnificent goal with a dangerous run, but his cross was caught by goalkeeper Rui Patricio. However, it was a different second half for Chris Coleman's side as the team was limited to only two attempts, clearly demoralized and dejected after the successive Portuguese goals.

Wales was clearly missing the services of midfielder Aaron Ramsey and defender Ben Davies. The teammates were suspended after both picked up their second bookings of the tournament. They were replaced by James Collin and Andy King, respectively, who filled in superbly for both players.

Thousands of Welsh fans and supporters were singing in a corner of the Stade de Lyon, and they were joined by Coleman's side after the final whistle.

"We have to be proud of ourselves. We have given everything on the pitch and off the pitch. We have tried to enjoy the experience of the tournament," Bale said. "We have no regrets."

Meanwhile, the win sets-up Portugal to a finals showdown with the winner of the France-Germany match.

Down, but Not Out

It has been an amazing journey for the Welsh, which began in 2012 when they were ranked 117th in the world.

Current coach Chris Coleman took the job in January 2012 after Gary Speed passed away. He believes that this is only the beginning, and the performance of the squad in Euro 2016 bodes well for the team's future.

Euro 2016 will be a learning experience for Bale and the rest, as they set their sights on the 2018 World Cup in Russia. They will face off against Moldova on Sept. 5 in the qualifiers.

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