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Considering that it's been 600 years since the the last time the world has had two living Popes, what are the odds that we could have two living Popes and have their two home countries face off in the World Cup Final? Answer: the odds are very low. But it happened!
Unfortunately, in a heartbreaking turn of events, the Vatican has released a statement saying Pope Francis and ex-Pope Benedict XVI will likely not be watching the World Cup final together, avoiding an Papal livingroom showdown as Argentina and Germany face off.
Though it’s disappointing they probably won’t be taking advantage of this almost unrepeatable set of circumstances, we’ll find a way to get over it. It does raise another question, though: Which of our popes really cares the most about his beloved sport? Benedict and Francis are both on record as being football fans, as well as thinking the sport has some major residual benefits in the spiritual growth department. In honor of their faux-rivalry in the finals, let’s take a look at who has the greater history with The Beautiful Game.
Favorite Team
BENEDICT: He supports FC Bayern Munich. This pope is no fair-weather World Cup fan – he’s here for the long haul.