Italy medical staff have confirmed today that Mario Balotelli will be forced to miss the Azzurri's Confederations Cup semi-final with Spain on Thursday.
Balotelli has been struggling with a persistent thigh problem and was in pain as he limped off the pitch after Saturday's 4-2 defeat to Brazil.
Following tests on Sunday, Italy team doctor Enrico Castellacci told journalists that the striker has suffered a muscle injury in his left thigh and will play no part against Spain, according to Football Italia.
Azzurri boss Cesare Prandelli is definitely without full-back Ignazio Abate for the rest of the tournament after he suffered a dislocated shoulder.
Andrea Pirlo and Riccardo Montolivo are also doubtful for the Spain match with a calf strain and concussion respectively.
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