BALOTELLI BACKS FRANCE TO LIFT EURO 2016

Former AC Milan forward Mario Balotelli has backed France to lift the Euro 2016 trophy.

France are the favourites to lift the trophy after seeing off former top favourites Germany on Thursday in an epic semi final match.

Balotelli backed his friend Paul Pogba to do wonders in the game against Portugal when they meet on Sunday at the final. The player who acknowledged Germany to be favourites backed the team to repeat their success when they play in the final.

France faced Germany in the semi final in Marseille for the chance to play Portugal, who had defeated Wales on Wednesday in the other semi final game, in the final game of the tournament. The game ended 2-0 in favour of France as two goals from Man of the Match Antoine Greizmann sunk the German machines.

The player, who was released from his loan to AC Milan from Liverpool, had faced Germany before when they played at the semi final four years ago at the Euro 2012. The striker scored two goals as Italy went past the Germans. Balotelli told Goal before the semi final match: “Objectively, yes [Germany are favourites], but subjectively I hope France win because I want my friend Pogba to win. Germany in 2012 were a little bit stronger than this current Germany side but Germany are always a strong team.”
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FRANCE ARE TOP FAVOURITES TO WIN EURO 2016

Les Blues are currently one of the most in form team in Europe with just few months to the European championships billed for June this year. Les blues are currently top favorites to win the trophy on home soil.

Christian Karembeu, France legend and World Cup winner, is also among those that believe the current French national team can end the 16-year wait for a major trophy by backing the composition of the national team under the guidance of veteran boss Didier Deschamps.


Karembeu said: “Didier Deschamps is building a new team with new ideas and we did well in the last world cup (2014) so I think we can see a strong national team in Euros.”

He then added: “we know we have potential and talent but, at home we also have our fans and they will push the team to perform and maybe even win it.”

Talking about talent and potential the French national team has a fine blend of both youth and experience with the likes of Antoine Griezman, Kinsley Coeman, Raphael Varane and Dimitri Payet in top form for their various clubs ahead of the championships. Veteran players like Patrice Evra and captain Hugo Illoris can provide the needed on field guidance and direction that is needed in huge competitions like the Euro. more