Fernando Torres was the hero for Spain by firing them to Euro 2008 glory against Germany in Vienna - and ending 44 years of disappointment.

Torres struck in the 33rd minute at Ernst Happel Stadion and despite the efforts of Germany skipper Michael Ballack, they held on to their lead to spark wild celebrations in Austria’s capital.

Spain outshot Germany 14-4, with Spain showing more fluidity and creativity on the field than the efficient German team.

A brave Turkish side depleted by injuries and suspensions were given a taste of their own medicine when Germany scored a last minute winner to reach the final of Euro 2008. Germany were fortunate not to get behind in the 13th minute when  Akman pulled the ball back from the byline for Kazim Richards to hit the crossbar from inside the area. In the 22nd minute Kazim Richards took a swipe at a low cross, sending the ball off the crossbar into the path of Ugur who knocked the ball past the unbalanced Lehmann from 6 yards out, but the Turkish lead lasted only 4 minutes as Podolski delivered a low cross into the box which Schweinsteiger spun into the back of the net with the outside of his right foot.

Germany took the lead in the 79th minute when Klose got to a cross before Rustu and headed the ball in, but with 4 minutes left Sabri’s low cross was toe-poked in at the near post by Semih for what looked like the goal that would take the match to extra time. However, a last minute goal from Philipp Lahm ended Turkey’s dream of Euro 2008 glory .

Portugal became the first team to reach the quarterfinals of soccer’s European Championship as co- host Switzerland was beaten with an injury-time goal.

Portugal, seeking its first major title, beat the Czech Republic 3-1 in Geneva yesterday after Cristiano Ronaldo scored one goal and assisted on another. Deco, Ronaldo and Ricardo Quaresma scored for Portugal yesterday, with Libor Sionko getting one for the Czech Republic. Its qualification for the last eight was assured when Turan’s shot gave Turkey the victory over the Swiss in Basel.

Portugal, the runner-up four years ago, has six points from two matches. The Czech Republic and Turkey are three points behind and meet June 15 in the final group game. Switzerland has lost both its games and will not finish in the top two.