Pope torn over who to support in Italy v Argentina
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
Pope Francis joked with Italy and Argentina players on the eve of a friendly football match in Rome on Tuesday, saying he was torn over who to support.
"It's going to be difficult for me, it's lucky it's a friendly match! And let's make sure it is one," the Argentine pontiff said in a private meeting, which journalists listened to over the speakers in the Vatican's press room.
The players, along with Italian coach Cesare Prandelli and Argentine coach Alejandro Sabella, met the 76-year-old at the Vatican before Wednesday's game at Rome's Stadio Olimpico.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
The pontiff, a lifelong fan of Argentine club San Lorenzo, called on the teams to make sure they used their popularity to give a good example to their fans.
"You, dear players, are very popular. People follow your example, off the pitch as well as on. You have a social responsibility," he said.
Among those present was AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli, who is often in the headlines for his behaviour on and off the pitch.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
The players presented Francis with a personalised shirt from each team with his name on it, as well as a silver vase from the Argentinians and an olive tree from the Italians.
"Please pray for me, so that I too, on the 'pitch' God has placed me on, can play an honest and courageous game for the good of everyone," the pope said at the end of the meeting.