Milan's Nesta ruled out for Real clash

AC Milan central defender Alessandro Nesta has been ruled out of Tuesday's Champions League game against European champions Real Madrid with a thigh strain.

Nesta had to sit out Italy's friendly with Turkey last week and missed Saturday's Milan derby with the injury but Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti was hoping the former Lazio defender would make it in time for the second stage Group C opener.

But Nesta was not named in the squad of 20 players called up for the match at the San Siro.

Ancelotti told the club's official website: "The only ones sure of playing are Dida, Rui Costa, Paolo Maldini and Alessandro Costacurta, given that Nesta has not recovered."

The experienced former Italy international Costacurta gave an excellent display alongside captain Maldini in the 1-0 win over Inter and the pair look certain to start against Real.

Portuguese midfielder Rui Costa was rested for the derby and his return could be at the expense of either Rivaldo or his compatriot Serginho -- who scored the only goal of Saturday's match.