Germany and Portugal progress to Euro 2012 quarter-finals

Lars Bender spared Germany from a shock exit with the winner in a 2-1 victory over Denmark, who had been pushing hard for the goal that would have taken them through to the last eight at their opponents' expense.

The Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, playing as full-back for the national team, struck just after Morten Olsen's side had seen a strong penalty appeal turned down.

Lukas Podolski put Germany in front in the 19th minute, but a goal from Michael Krohn-Dehli five minutes later lifted Denmark's spirits.

Germany controlled much of the game, but were nevertheless made to sweat as Denmark's belief and Portugal's 2-1 win over Holland ensured a tense finale which ended in their favour, clinching them top spot in Group B with a perfect record and a clash with Greece in Gdansk on Friday.

Cristiano Ronaldo inspired Portugal's passage into the quarter-finals with two goals that ended Holland's dismal tournament.

Ronaldo was irresistible throughout as he led his side to a last-eight appointment with the Czech Republic in Warsaw on Thursday.

The 27-year-old responded to criticism of his form with a mesmerising display topped by a goal in each half to ensure Portugal finished the 'group of death' as runners-up.

Apart from a fine early strike from Rafael van der Vaart, Holland were poor, ensuring a team considered among the pre-tournament favourites finished bottom of Group B without a point to their name.