Mario Balotelli will miss Italy’s semifinal vs. Spain in the Confederations Cup due to a strained thigh, handing the team another major injury worry before facing the World Cup holders.
The Italian Football Federation made the announcement on Sunday following medical tests on Balotelli’s left quadriceps. The injury occurred during Italy’s 4-2 loss to Brazil on Saturday. The federation said that Balotelli would continue to be monitored in the hope that he can return for Italy’s next match — either the final or the third-place game. Italy faces Spain on Thursday. The final and third-place games are on June 30.
Balotelli has been the Azzurri’s most explosive player in the tournament so far.