Italy's Balotelli: Goals against Germany are for My Mum
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Mario Balotelli, bottom, greets his mother at the end of the semi-final match between Germany and Italy. Photo by EPA
Italy's Mario Balotelli dedicated his match-winning performance in Euro 2012 semi-final against Germany to his adoptive mother.
At the final whistle, the Italy striker embraced Silvia Balotelli, who brought him up from the age of two after he was born in Italy to Ghanaian immigrants.
"After the game, when I went to my mum I said 'these goals are for you'," he said. "I waited for this moment for so long and I wanted to make my mum happy.Tonight was the most beautiful of my life – but I hope that this Sunday is even better."
Balotelli's double was enough to send Italy to the finals and clash with the holders Spain in Kiev.
"With Spain we are the two best teams in the tournament," said Balotelli. "Can we win? I'll tell you on Sunday."
Balotelli struck three goals during the tournament and he is now favourite to win the coveted Golden Boot prize.
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