Italy centre-back Alessandro Nesta is set to miss the World Cup semi-final against Germany after making slow progress in his recovery from a groin injury.

The AC Milan star has not played since picking up the injury during the Azzurri's final group match against Czech Republic and looks unlikely to take any further part in the tournament.

Italian Football Federation spokesman Antonello Valentini said: "His chances of playing (against Germany) are very remote."

Azzurri coach Marcello Lippi must now decide whether to recall Marco Materazzi after he missed the quarter-final victory against Ukraine through suspension or stick with Andrea Barzagli as Fabio Cannavaro's central defensive partner.