Mario Balotelli Video: Watch Amazing Goal Against Ireland

Mario Balotelli can infuriate you with his antics and head-scratching gaffes, but as we saw in Italy's 2-0 win against Ireland in the European Championships, he can also take your breath away with his remarkable ability.

While Italy ultimately didn't need a second goal to advance, it certainly gave them breathing room with the right to advance out of Group C still hanging in the balance. With the win over the Irish and Spain's win over Croatia, the Italians finished second in the group.

In typical Balotelli fashion, it looked as though his teammates had to silence him in his celebration. Who knows what he was saying or who he was directing his comments at?

But no matter. After a goal like that, certain hijinks can be forgiven.

The question now remains: Was this the best goal of the tournament? I think Theo Walcott and Danny Welbeck might have something to say about that after Walcott's excellent run, perfect cross and Welbeck's twisting, improbable back-heel finish.

I have to give the slight nod to the English duo for the totality of that effort by both men, but Balotelli's individual effort and stunning athleticism make his goal a very close second.

If England finish atop Group D tomorrow, we'll get a chance to see these three men face off in an Italy versus England tilt. One can only hope that game would produce a few magical highlights as well.

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