Italy's Fabio Cannavaro is carried by medical staff after he was injured during a training session at the Suedstadt stadium in Maria Enzersdorf June 2, 2008. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo)

Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro will miss the European Championship after injuring his right ankle in the Azzurri's opening training session.

Six hours after Italy's plane touched down in Vienna yesterday, Cannavaro was hurt in a collision with fellow defender Giorgio Chiellini.

Italy's Fabio Canavaro lies on the pitch after he was injured during a training session at the Suedstadt stadium in Maria Enzersdorf June 2, 2008. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo)

The World Cup champions have called up Fiorentina defender Alessandro Gamberini to replace Cannavaro, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon likely taking over the captaincy.

Cannavaro was brought to two different local hospitals for medical exams, with the final decision coming at the Vienna Akh hospital. The Italian football federation said Cannavaro's ligaments were torn.

After the collision, Cannavaro was on the ground for about 20 minutes before being carried off on a stretcher. The 7,000 local fans in attendance gave Cannavaro a long applause when he finally exited.

Italy opens the tournament next Monday against the Netherlands.

Cannavaro was instrumental in Italy's run to the World Cup title two years ago, earning the Golden Ball award based on his efforts at the tournament in Germany.