10 years ago today, Mario Balotelli scored his iconic brace against Germany in the Euro 2012 semi-finals.
The Italian forward, who was about to join Roberto Mancini’s Manchester City, had a fairly anonymous tournament prior to the semi-final clash, netting only once in a group game against Ireland.
In a rematch of one of the most memorable World Cup semi-finals in recent memory, Italy again prepared to face Germany on June 28 at the PGE Narodowy in Poland. Despite the tension, the Azzurri got off to a flying start as Balotelli headed home his first of the night after 20 minutes, catching Antonio Cassano’s cross well.
16 minutes later, Balotelli scored what could possibly be the seminal goal of his career. A well-placed long pass by Riccardo Montolivo was controlled deftly by the forward, who then stormed down the pitch to face Manuel Neuer. Just as he was entering the penalty area, he struck a cannon-like shot straight into the top right corner, giving the Azzurri a 2-0 lead.
Italy won the match 2-1 and both Ballotelli’s goals and his iconic celebration after the second became part of Azzurri history.
Desmondeyum
22
Mario Balotelli's only assist in The Premier League was Aguero's title -winning goal.
Echee27
16
whenever I see Balotelli I remember he is the first man to introduce the word of ""Why Always Me""
Desmondeyum
15
This story of Mario Balotelli will never get old 😂
Desmondeyum
14
🇨🇲 Samuel Eto’o on Mario Balotelli: “I love Mario like a little brother, but he never played to even 10% of his qualities: the Mario I saw in training when he wanted, you never saw in the game. He had the ability to touch the hearts of supporters every day for 20 years.”