Pope vs. Pope: World Cup Final Between Argentina And Germany Pits Francis Against Benedict XVI

FIFA 2014: Pope Francis vs. Pope Benedict XVI

The FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Germany could herald a rift in the Catholic church, pitting Argentine-born Pope Francis against German Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.

102058744

Pope Francis has almost surely been secretly rooting for Argentina, despite his pledge to keep his prayers neutral.

But Germany's unbelievable 7-1 rout of Brazil during yesterday's semi-final could make for an awkward final match for the Vatican's holiest football fans.

When Francis first met Benedict XVI in person after his election, he declared, "we are brothers," but family feuds have started over less.

Francis earlier joked of a "war" between him and his protectors, The Swiss Guards, during the Argentina-Switzerland match. But could we now see a holy war between two Popes?

No word from the Vatican as of press time, but fans are already speculating. The jury's out on Jesus, however.

Before You Go

Pope Francis And Sports

Pope Francis On Sports

Popular in the Community

Close

What's Hot