All UEFA Futsal European Championship semi-finalists confirmed in Ljubljana

Defending champions Portugal and record winners Spain showcased their pedigree on 1 February by storming into the semi-finals of the UEFA Futsal European Championship with convincing quarter-final victories at Ljubljana's Stožice Arena.

Portugal swept past Belgium 8:2 to extend their flawless run at the tournament and underline their status as the team to beat, CE Report quotes The Slovenia Times.

The reigning European and world champions once again combined intensity and clinical finishing, continuing an impressive streak that has seen them go unbeaten in their last two continental title-winning campaigns as they pursue a historic third title in a row.

Spain, seven-time European champions, then completed the semi-final line-up with a commanding 4:0 victory over Italy, controlling the match from start to finish.

The result keeps Spain's long-standing tradition of reaching the latter stages of the competition intact and confirms their return as serious title contenders.

Wednesday's semi-finals in Ljubljana promise two enticing encounters. Portugal will take on France, who edged past Ukraine 4:2 after extra time in Riga, while Spain face Croatia, who defeated Armenia 3:0 in Kaunas to reach the last four.

Both semi-final matches are likely to attract significant crowds given the high profile of the remaining teams. The Spain-Croatia encounter in particular looks set to create a thrilling atmosphere, with hundreds, if not thousands, of Croatian fans likely to converge on Ljubljana.

All remaining matches, including Saturday's final and the third-place playoff, will be staged at Stožice Arena.

Photo: Bor Slana/STA