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Italy call up Francesco Acerbi with Andrea Barzagli, Simone Zaza out

FLORENCE, Italy -- Sassuolo defender Francesco Acerbi has been called up to the Italy squad after Andrea Barzagli was ruled out of upcoming matches against Croatia and Portugal.

Barzagli left the Italy training camp along with Sassuolo striker Simone Zaza after medical tests on Monday.

Barzagli has struggled with injuries all season but started for Juventus in Saturday's Champions League final.

Zaza had already complained of muscular problems last week.

Italy face Group H leaders Croatia in Split on Friday in a European Championship qualifier, then meet Portugal in Geneva four days later in a friendly.

The Azzurri are second in their qualifying group, two points behind Croatia.

Italy are unbeaten with five wins and three draws since Antonio Conte replaced Cesare Prandelli as coach after last year's World Cup.