Zambrotta out of Ghana game

GIANLUCA ZAMBROTTA has been ruled out of Italy’s World Cup opener against Ghana.

The Juventus full-back had a fitness test on his thigh injury and the results revealed he would not be ready in time for Monday’s game.

“We hope that [Marcello] Lippi will have Zambrotta available for the second clash, against the United States,” said Italy team doctor Enrico Castellacci.

The Azzurri’s other defensive doubt, AC Milan centre-back Alessandro Nesta, will have a late test on Saturday to see if he has recovered from a muscular injury.

“We hope to have Nesta back at soon as possible but we will not take any risks,” added Castellacci.