Balotelli gets 2-match ban
Nice's Italian forward Mario Balotelli (L) celebrates after scoring a goal during the French L1 football match between Nice (OGCN) and Dijon (DFCO). Photo: AFP
Mario Balotelli was handed a two-match ban Thursday after being sent off for an off-the-ball incident in last month's 0-0 draw at Bordeaux, his club Nice said.
The Italian striker and team-mate Younes Belhanda -- who was given a one-match ban -- were dismissed in the dying seconds as Bordeaux frustrated the Ligue 1 leaders before the winter break.
Balotelli was given his marching orders for lashing out at Bordeaux defender Igor Lewczuk.
The colourful Balotelli, who has had numerous run-ins with officials in the Premier League and in Italy, will miss the French Cup against Lorient on Sunday and the visit of Metz in the league on January 15.
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