Prandelli: ‘A good chance’ Balotelli will play

Italy and AC MIlan striker Mario Balotelli is one of the world’s most polarizing players, mixing tremendous talent with what is often perceived a bad attitude. When he is on, he is the perfect striker blend of finesse and power and is a handfull for any defender. (AP/Martin Meissner)

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil — Italy coach Cesare Prandelli says there’s “a good possibility” that forward Mario Balotelli will play in its Confederations Cup opener against Mexico on Sunday despite a right leg muscle problem.

Balotelli exited the training pitch with Italy’s team physician Friday for precautionary reasons related to a previous physical problem.

Prandelli says Saturday, “Regarding Mario we have a good possibility of seeing him on the pitch. But we’ll wait until the last training.”

Balotelli will likely be flanked by Emanuele Giaccherini and Alessio Cerci in Prandelli’s 4-3-3 lineup.

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