Nice coach Lucien Favre hailed matchwinner Mario Balotelli after victory over Lorient.

Former Liverpool and Manchester City striker Balotelli hit a spectacular goal for Nice - before he was sent off in the final minute of normal time.

Favre was eager for the red card not to detract from the player's performance.

"The goal of Balotelli was extraordinary. In the game, I had not thought to replace him because we know what he is capable of. I know he is capable of pulling off a goal from nowhere.

"Before that, we had trouble finding him, even if it was better in the second half. He had to come deeper to get the ball."