The opening goal was the result of excellent one-touch football - the hallmark of Spain's game. Andres Iniesta prodded the ball through for Jordi Alba, who whipped a perfect cross from the left to Alonso. The Real Madrid midfielder timed his run so well that no France defender picked him up.
Spain wrapped things up after France right back Anthony Reveillere barged into substitute forward Pedro Rodriguez in injury time. Alonso coolly sent goalkeeper Hugo Lloris the wrong way from the spot, looking right but clipping the ball firmly to the left.
France's only shot on target came in the 32d minute, when Yohan Cabaye's free kick was tipped over by Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas.
England vs. Italy preview
On Sunday, England plays Italy in the last quarterfinal, in Ukraine's Kiev Olympic Stadium, in a game that features two teams that have exceeded expectations. The winner will take on Germany.
England captain Steven Gerrard on Saturday said it was time to prove the doubters wrong by reaching the semifinals of a major tournament for the first time in 16 years.
N.E. rallies to tie Toronto
Chris Tierney scored in second-half stoppage time to lift the New England Revolution to a 2-2 draw with host Toronto FC in MLS action.
Danny Koevermans put Toronto ahead in the fourth minute and Ryan Johnson doubled the lead in the 42d, before it gave up a two-goal lead for the second straight game. On Wednesday, Houston scored two late goals to pull into a 3-3 draw with Toronto.
Montreal tops Houston
The Montreal's Hassoun Camara scored in the 67th minute and Patrice Bernier tallied seven minutes later to lead the Impact to a 4-2 win over the visiting Dynamo.
