The trial of four leading Italian football clubs on match-fixing charges has been opened and adjourned.

Champions Juventus, plus AC Milan, Fiorentina and Lazio could be relegated from Serie A and forced out of European competition if found guilty.

A six-strong panel of judges convened at the Olympic Stadium to try the clubs, plus 26 senior officials, referees and linesmen. After legal submissions, the tribunal was postponed until Monday.

Lawyers representing five Serie B teams, who hope to be promoted if the accused squads are relegated, want to give evidence.