Published: Today at 14:50
MARIO BALOTELLI has been backed by the head of Italian football to bounce back from his poor show against Spain in their Euro 2012 opener.
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The Manchester City forward was replaced before the hour mark in yesterday’s 1-1 draw in the Group C clash in Gdansk,shortly after missing a golden scoring opportunity.
Balotelli, 21, had previously been shown a yellow card for a late challenge on Spain’s Jordi Alba.
But Italy Football Federation president Giancarlo Abete said: "Balotelli made his contribution, although he must try to understand the reality of playing in a major international competition in which there is no forgiveness.
“He nevertheless put the Spanish defence under pressure.
“Balotelli will not allow himself to be disheartened.”
Italy coach Cesare Prandelli, meanwhile, claimed Balotelli’s substitution was not a “punishment” for the striker’s missed chance.
Balotelli only had Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas to beat, but hesitated and allowed defender Sergio Ramos to recover and make a crucial challenge.
Prandello said: "I had already decided to bring on Antonio Di Natale before the error, so it was not a punishment.
“I don’t know what happened to Mario when he was alone in front of their goalkeeper.
“He probably had two options and in these cases a striker should only have one.
“He should have passed it to Antonio Cassano.”
The Azzurri take on Group C leaders Croatia in Poznan, Poland, on Thursday.
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