Italy boss Cesare Prandelli believes that losing the Euro 2012 final will make Mario Balotelli a stronger player.

The Azzurri were thrashed 4-0 by Spain in the tournament final on Sunday.

Balotelli stormed down the tunnel at the end of the game before returning to collect his medal and Prandelli says that the Manchester City striker will learn from the experience.

"I told Mario that these are experiences you have to deal with and have to accept," said Prandelli.

"You have to hold your hands up and say the opponents were better, accept defeat. But you also have to make sure this helps you going forward and you can grow from the experience.

"This has happened to a number of players, and will happen again, but this is what sport is all about."

Balotelli finished the tournament as the joint-top scorer with three goals.