Manaus (Brazil), June 15: Italy striker Mario Balotelli dedicated his goal, which secured a 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup Group D opener, to his wife and friends.

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The AC Milan star said though the game was tough and they suffered because of the extreme weather conditions, he was very happy to grab the win, reports EFE.

The clash Saturday was a repeat of the 2012 European Championship quarterfinal and the Italians prevailed yet again.

The win pushed Italy to book second place currently in the group on goal difference from Costa Rica, who are on top, while England and Uruguay don't have any points.

IANS/EFE