Mario Balotelli misses Spain semi-final through injury

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.