It took a winning goal at his first ever World Cup game to see Mario Balotelli smile and celebrate after he secured Italy’s 2-1 win over England in Manaus. Pictures of a smiling Balotelli lifting his arms and blowing kisses filled Italian newspapers and websites yesterday, giving way to speculations that his recent wedding proposal was helping the AC Milan striker control his often unruly behaviour on the pitch.
The target of his kisses was Fanny Neguesha, the Belgian fiancee who last week joined Super Mario and said yes on the beach of the Mangaratiba resort, where the Azzurri set their camp.
“I am truly happy. It is a unique emotion,” said Balotelli, who nodded home the winner and was named man of the match.
“I had never played at a World Cup and having such a first game is fantastic. I dedicate the goal to my future wife, to my family, and to my friends who are at home watching me on TV.”