Brazil 2-2 Italy: Balotelli wonder goal saves game

Mario Balotelli produced a superb strike to earn Italy a 2-2 draw against Brazil in a friendly in Geneva last night after the South Americans had led 2-0 at half-time.

Scorers: Brazil - Fred (33), Oscar (42); Italy - De Rossi (53), Balotelli (56)

Fred and Oscar scored to put the 2014 World Cup hosts in command despite Brazil being on the back foot for most of the first half.

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However, Daniele De Rossi pulled a goal back for Italy eight minutes after half-time and they levelled three minutes later when the in-form Balotelli strode forward and curled the ball past Julio Cesar from 25 yards, taking his tally to eight goals in 2013 for club and country.

AC Milan striker Balotelli was twice denied a winner by QPR goalkeeper Cesar in an attacking but physical game which left Luiz Felipe Scolari still waiting for his first win since being reappointed as Brazil coach in November.

Mattia De Sciglio and Alessio Cerci were given their Italy debuts with the AC Milan defender starting, while Torino winger Cerci came on at half-time.

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