Balotelli has thigh injury, will miss semifinal vs Spain

Forward Mario Balotelli will miss Italy's semifinal vs. Spain in the Confederations Cup due to a strained thigh, handing the team another major injury complication before facing the World Cup holder, sports.terra.com reported. 

The Italian Football Federation made the announcement 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.