MARIO BALOTELLI marked his return to international soccer in style as his goal helped Italy secure a 2-1 friendly victory over Saudi Arabia in Robert Mancini’s first match in charge.

Having recalled Balotelli to the Italy squad for the first time since the 2014 World Cup, Mancini — instilled as boss May 14 — showed no hesitation in starting his former Inter and Manchester City prodigy as the spearhead in a relatively inexperienced lineup.

And Balotelli duly repaid Mancini’s faith, capping his first start since the 1-0 defeat to Uruguay on June 24, 2014, with a sublime solo strike 21 minutes into Monday’s clash in St. Gallen.

Unlike the Azzurri, Saudi Arabia has qualified for this year’s World Cup, up against Egypt, Uruguay and hosts Russia in Group A, but Juan Antonio Pizzi’s side was lackluster throughout — Domenico Criscito hitting the woodwork as Italy pressed for a second.

Balotelli made way to a standing ovation just before the hour, and that change proved decisive when substitute Andrea Belotti drilled in Italy’s second on 68 minutes.

Sloppy play from Davide Zappacosta enabled Yahya Al Shehri to pull one back for Saudi Arabia, but Italy — thanks to a great stop from Gianluigi Donnarumma — held firm to get Mancini’s tenure off to a winning start.

Balotelli had the ball in the net inside two minutes, having capitalized on Mohammed Al Owais’ dreadful clearance, but Italy’s celebrations were cut short by the offside flag.

Italy’s striker looked in the mood, and — after going close with a powerful header — turned a sublime pass into Alessandro Florenzi, who failed to apply the finish after rounding Al Owais.

But Balotelli did not have to wait long to get on the scoresheet, the 27-year-old twisting and turning his way clear of three defenders before thumping an unerring finish into the bottom-left corner from 25 yards out — his first international strike since netting against England four years ago. Saudi Arabia offered little attacking threat, and Italy was just inches away from extending its lead when Criscito’s venomous strike rattled the crossbar.

(SD-Agencies)