Majestic Pirlo impresses Maracana in Italy win

Italy's Mario Balotelli (2nd L) celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal during their Confederations Cup Group A soccer match against Mexico at the Estadio Maracana in Rio de Janeiro June 16, 2013. REUTERS/Satiro Sodre

RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - Mario Balotelli scored the winner and Andrea Pirlo, capping a majestic 100th international appearance by scoring with a 30-metre free kick, provided the inspiration as Italy beat Mexico 2-1 in their opening Confederations Cup match on Sunday.

Pirlo's goal was entirely worthy of the hallowed Maracana, which provided the perfect stage as he became the fifth Italian to reach a century of full internationals.