EXCLUSIVE
Mario Balotelli believes that Germany are favourites to win Euro 2016 but hopes that Paul Pogba and France are victorious in Sunday's final.
The World Cup holders face the tournament hosts in Thursday's semi-final, with the winners to meet Portugal in Sunday's showdown at the Stade de France.
And when asked by Goal if he felt that Germany are favourites, Balotelli, in his role as a PUMA ambassador, replied: "Objectively, yes, but subjectively I hope France win because I want my friend Pogba to win.
"Germany in 2012 were a little bit stronger than this current Germany side but Germany are always a strong team. I speak of little things, details. The team we faced in 2012 looked more compact but also this Germany are really good."
Balotelli also believes that France currently have the tournament's best performer in Dimitri Payet.
"He played well in this tournament," the striker enthused of the West Ham star's form. "He has been decisive since the first game.
"But just a match can change Euro history so we have to wait for the last matches."
.jpg?auto=webp&format=pjpg&width=640&quality=60)