Italy defender Alessandro Nesta will miss Monday's World Cup second round match against Australia with a groin muscle injury.

Azzurri team doctor Enrico Castellacci hopes Nesta will return to action before the end of the tournament if Italy progress, but has confirmed that the Socceroos clash will come too soon for the 30-year-old AC Milan defender.

"It is not a big strain but he certainly won't play against Australia on Monday. We will continue to evaluate him and try to get him back as fast as possible," said Castellacci.

Nesta picked up the injury in Thursday's 2-0 win over Czech Republic - their final Group E match.

He was replaced by Marco Materazzi who went on to score Italy's opening goal against Karel Bruckner's side and the Internazionale star is expected to deputise for Nesta against Australia.

Italy coach Marcello Lippi will also be without Daniele De Rossi's services as the midfielder is serving a four-match suspension following his dismissal in the 1-1 draw against the USA.