Updated 11 p.m.

Mario Balotelli extended his rich vein of scoring form as he hit a brace to inspire Italy to a 2-0 win over a spirited Malta team in a World Cup Group B qualifier in Ta' Qali.

Balotelli gave Italy an eighth-minute lead with a well-taken penalty after Malta defender Luke Dimech floored Stephan El Shaarawy in the penalty area.

Malta had a two excellent opportunities to level as captain Michael Mifsud had a penalty saved by Gianluigi Buffon and, minutes later, Mifsud rattled the crossbar with a long-range drive.

Malta paid dearly for the misses as Balotelli doubled Italy's lead on the verge of half-time with a volley after a surging run by right-back Mattia De Sciglio.

Italy easily preserved their two-goal advantage in the second half to strengthen their grip on top spot in Group B with 13 points from five games.

Italy enjoyed the lion's share of possession but Malta stood their ground. Malta did not defend en masse and tried hard to keep possession, at times managing to come out of their area confidently with the ball.

Formations

Malta - J. Haber, J. Carauna, A. Muscat, G. Sciberras, L. Dimech, C. Failla(81 A. Cohen), R. Briffa, M. Mifsud (89 T. Vella), A. Schembri, E.Herrera, R. Camilleri.

Italy - G. Buffon, M. De Sciglio, I. Abate, C. Marchisio, M. Balotelli (86 ,S. Shaarawy (76 A. Cerci), A. Barzagli, R. Montolivio, L. Bonucci, A.Pirlo, E. Giaccherini ( 60 A. Candreva).

Referee: Serder Gozubuyuj (Netherlands FA)

Italy hero Balotelli dribbles past Malta's defence. - Picture matthew MirabelliItaly hero Balotelli dribbles past Malta's defence. - Picture matthew Mirabelli

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