Euro 2016 Qualifiers – Injured Mario Balotelli Withdraws from Italy Squad
Italy coach Antonio Conte will have to do without Mario Balotelli for the high-stakes Euro 2016 qualifier against Croatia. The Liverpool striker, recently recalled to the national team setup for the first time under Conte, has been forced to withdraw due to a hamstring injury.
Missed Opportunity for Balotelli:
Balotelli’s call-up was seen as a chance to redeem himself and prove his critics — including Conte — wrong. The clash against Croatia was an ideal platform for the 24-year-old to demonstrate commitment and form. However, injury has once again derailed his momentum.
Ogbonna Also Out:
In addition to Balotelli, Juventus defender Angelo Ogbonna has also been ruled out of Sunday’s encounter due to lingering pain in his left thigh. The Italian Football Federation confirmed that the medical team opted to withdraw him as a precaution.
Italy now face group leaders Croatia without two key players as they continue their campaign to qualify for Euro 2016.
