Euro2008 Preview: Holland v Italy

Arjen Robben will miss Holland's Euro 2008 opener against Italy in Berne on Monday after picking up a groin injury in training. The Dutch coach Marco van Basten said: "It's very disappointing for Arjen and a pity for the team as we have lost another left winger in Ryan Babel."

Van Basten was philosophical about Robben's setback, adding: "Together with the medical department, Arjen will work very hard on his recovery. So we really do hope that he can be of value for the team later in the tournament." Dutch striker Robin van Persie returned to training on Saturday after a thigh injury, but van Basten has questioned whether he is fit to play. Mario Melchiot missed the session and is rated as an injury doubt. The right-back has been struggling with a groin injury but was considered an unlikely starter anyway. Arsenal forward Van Persie's condition has been improving, but Van Basten has said he will not risk him. The coach said: "His condition is improving from day to day, but it is logical that there is still some improvement to come. He has a lot of catching up to do and the Italy match will be too early. Van Persie, however, has not given up hope, saying: "I understand that I lack match practice but I still hope I can start against Italy." Wesley Sneijder joined Van Persie in returning to training with the full squad, despite his injury problems earlier in the week.

Italy's Christian Panucci hopes to be fit, despite suffering a knee injury. The Italian defence is already without captain Fabio Cannavaro, who was ruled out of the tournament through injury. Italy will be desperate for Panucci to make their crucial opening to the so-called 'group of death', which also features France.