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World Cup | Qualifiers

Mar 26, 2013 at 7.45pm UK

Malta
0-2
Italy

Ricardo Montolivo labels Mario Balotelli a "superstar"

By Paul Gorst, Reporter

Published: March 27 2013 | 04:14

Last updated: March 27 2013 | 19:10

AC Milan midfielder Ricardo Montolivo calls club and national teammate Mario Balotelli a "superstar" after the forward scored both goals in Italy's 2-0 win over Malta on Tuesday.

Ricardo Montolivo has hailed Mario Balotelli as a "superstar" following his brace in Italy's 2-0 win over Malta on Tuesday.

The AC Milan forward grabbed both goals for Cesare Prandelli's side and Balotelli's club teammate Montolivo praised the ability of the former Manchester City man after the game.

"Malta were clammed up and it was tough to find spaces. Luckily we had that superstar in attack and he sorted it out for us," Montolivo told reporters.

"I think Mario has become fully aware of his abilities and has learned not to fall into the trap of provocation. He has had a remarkable impact on Milan too and I hope he won't stop.

"Balotelli is a centre-forward and is therefore the leading point of the attack. We can even give him the ball badly, as he is so physically strong that he can hold off defenders and find space. Right now, he is a complete player."

Balotelli has scored 10 goals for club and country since moving back to Serie A in January.