Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas says Spain need to step up a gear if they're to beat Portugal in the Euro2012 semifinals.

Fabregas knows Spain will not have things all their own way against Paulo Bento's side, with it difficult to tell how a game brimming with creative talent will play out.

He said: "Portugal will be very difficult. They have strong individuals, strong players.

"Apart from their good open play, they are very good on the counter-attack, and we'll have to work hard in that game.

"They have (Cristiano) Ronaldo, Nani, Raul Meireles, Joao Moutinho. They have very good players."