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Mario Balotelli scores twice to put Nice in Europa League knockouts

Mario Balotelli scored twice as Nice qualified for the Europa League round of 32 by beating Zulte Waregem 3-1 on Thursday.

Balotelli continued his fine form in the competition with his brace, before later efforts from Brian Hamalainen and Adrien Aoutsa cancelled each other out.

In a perfect start, Balotelli converted from the penalty spot, sending goalkeeper Louis Bostyn the wrong way.

The striker made it 2-0 from close range in the 31st to put the hosts in control with his fourth goal in five Europa League games this season.

Tameze added a late goal for Nice, while Hamalainen scored the consolation goal for Waregem.

For the rest of the day's Europa League results, click here.

Press Association and Associated Press contributed to this report.