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Diego Maradona: Italy eager for Mario Balotelli impact

Maradona: 'Italy want Balotelli to explode'
© PA Photos
Diego Maradona believes that Italy will want Mario Balotelli to "explode" in front of goal against the Germans in the Euro 2012 semi-final tonight.

Argentina legend Diego Maradona believes that Mario Balotelli could be the key for Italy when they take on Germany in the Euro 2012 semi-final this evening.

The two nations go head to head for a place in the final of the elite tournament and Maradona believes that the Azzurri will be urging the Manchester City striker to come good.

"The Italian forwards Mario Balotelli and Antonio Cassano have scored only one goal each in this championship," Maradona wrote in the Indian Times.

"Against England, the forwards had eight chances, two posts and zero goals. This, despite excellent opportunities that came their way. The Italians will try to achieve control, defend with order, and hope that Balotelli can finally explode."

The winners of the highly anticipated clash will meet Spain in the final following their 4-2 win on penalties over Portugal last night.

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Daniele De Rossi
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