Football
10 years since Balotelli’s iconic celebration. Recall his super performance against Germany
He was one of football’s greatest talents. But unfortunately Mario Balotelli didn’t have it in his head and so he achieved much less than expected. But his talent was undeniable and when he had a day, he was unstoppable. Just like in the Euro semi-final ten years ago against Germany.
He was one of football’s greatest talents. But unfortunately Mario Balotelli didn’t have it in his head and so he achieved much less than expected. But his talent was undeniable and when he had a day, he was unstoppable. Just like in the Euro semi-final ten years ago against Germany.
Today is exactly ten years to the day since Mario Balotelli once again filled the headlines of every media outlet around the world. But this time not for his excesses, but for his football performance.
And not just any performance. At Euro 2012, Balotelli was one of the main stars. The then 21-year-old had a great season at Manchester City, where he netted 17 goals and was there for the title, which Agüero scored with an iconic goal in the setup.
He helped Italy reach the final at the European Championships in Poland and Ukraine, most notably in the semi-final against Germany.
In the 20th minute, he ran onto a fluffy Cassano centre, leaped over Badstuber in the air and headed in. But an even more iconic moment came in the 36th minute.
SuperMario received a long pass behind the defense from Montolivo, raced alone at Neuer and bounced the ball out of the box and fired a cannonball into the crossbar.
But the already beautiful goal was made even more famous by the ensuing celebration, which has gone down in history as one of the most iconic in recent years. Balotelli stripped off his jersey and clenched every muscle in his body without a sign of joy.
This celebration immediately became an internet hit and the subject of several jokes.
Source: EURO, Twitter
