Cristiano Ronaldo’s quest for a second European Football Championship was halted as Portugal was ousted 3-5 on penalties by France in the quarter-finals on Friday.

In what was seen as a final before the final, the two teams proved to be evenly matched following a goalless stalemate after regular and extra time.

The Ronaldo-led Portugal survived a penalty shootout in the previous round after being perfect from the spot but failed to replicate that composure against the French, as misses from Joao Felix and Nuno Mendes were the difference in the encounter.

The result now sets up a mega clash between France and Spain in the semi-final set for next week.