Helder Postiga believes that the Portuguese team can return home with pride, despite the heartbreaking defeat on a penalty shootout against Spain on the semifinals of the Euro 2012.

Neither of the two sides could find the net during 120 minutes of play, but the reigning European and world champions eventually booked their place in Sunday's final after Cesc Fabregas scored the decisive penalty in the shoot-out. This finally kicked the Seleccao out of the tournament and ensures the La Roja’s place on the finals.

The 29-year-old striker, who was unable to join the fight against Spain due to an injury, feels that their failure should not crush their spirits, as his side can now learn from their experiences in this conference.

"Portugal demonstrated a great desire to win but unfortunately the match was decided on penalties." Postiga told reporters.

"We didn't have the luck of previous competitions but we have to keep our heads held high because the players gave their all on the field and brought honour to Portugal."

"This result and the campaign should make the Portuguese proud."

"Now it is time to carry on working, it's time to recover and start thinking about the next challenge."

Nelson Oliveira feels that Portugal was a total match to their fellow Iberians even with the defeat, and stressed that the team hold their heads high as they have done quite well.

"We played well and we were equal to Spain. Sadly, we didn't get the win that we wanted," the young attacker was quoted as saying on the official UEFA website.

"We obviously feel a great sadness. We wanted to go through to the final and we didn't make it. We're sad but at the same time we can hold our heads high because we are dignified in our defeat.

"We did everything we could to win and unfortunately we were unable to do so, but we come away proud."

The 20-year-old came off the bench in the 81st minute, but was unable to break the deadlock.