It is a win, but not with an overall majority for the Portuguese centre-right, which looks set to win about 38.5% of the vote to the Socialists 32% in the general election.

Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho becomes the first European leader to win re-election after imposing harsh austerity at the EU’s behest on a member state’s economy.

Another coalition appears inevitable, and the drop in support means Passos Coelho may have to soften some policies.

“This is the first time that a coalition government completed their mandate. It was the first time,” he claimed.

Antonio Costa was cheered by his supporters, but was unable to turn years of austerity into a Syriza-style revolt at the polls. The Socialists beat off the other left-wing parties, who scooped around 18% together.

“The coalition must understand that Portugal is experiencing a new political moment, which means they cannot keep governing as if nothing had happened,” said Costa.

Two other leftwing parties scored 18% be