Euro 2012 Scores: Mario Balotelli's Emergence Is Great Sign for Italians

Italy secured their place in the next round of the European Championship with a 2-0 win over Ireland, and at the end of that match they got a goal that gives them hope of making a deep run. 

The enigmatic, frustrating and brilliant player Mario Balotelli netted a sublime goal to nail down this victory. It was just Balotelli's second international goal, but it was more than just a goal; it was a statement. 

Check out the goal: 

This is the exact kind of spark of brilliance that Italy needs. 

This wasn't an overly convincing win for the Italians. They can be rigid and stagnant at times and it showed in this match. 

Ireland was able to quiet Italy's attack for most of this match by using a narrow diamond which eliminated the attacking nature of their midfield and without that the front line struggled. This is not a new problem for Italy, and it will end their tournament run if they don't find a player that can create his own magic and excels in playing without structure.

If Balotelli is mentally checked in, he can provide exactly that. This, of course, is a big if. It is plays like the goal above that get fans dreaming of greatness, but Mario is just as likely to blow an easy play or make a baffling decision. Such is the frustrating reality of trying to count on him. 

He was undoubtedly checked in to this contest. He was intense and focused, and he appears to be dialing in. He is the exact kind of wild card this team needs. While his meltdowns could lead to Italy's downfall, they won't be able to win it without him.