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.

Lippi is expected to bring Parma's Daniele Bonera into the team to replace Zambrotta.

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.

Nesta aggravated an old adductor muscle injury in the 0-0 friendly against the Ukraine last Friday.

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

Italy, aiming to win their first World Cup since 1982, are scheduled to arrive at their World Cup training base at Duisberg tomorrow.