The Italians will play against Spain without their top striker.

Italian striker, Mario Balotelli, has been ruled out of the semi-final clash between Spain and Italy.

The striker, who has led the Italian attack at the competition scoring two goals, was ruled out after sustaining a thigh injury in their final group match against Brazil.

Team doctors have also confirmed that he has since returned to Italy.

The Italians could now be led in attack in the game against the World and European Champions by either Alberto Gilardino or Stephan El Shaarawy.