Who has God on their side? Popes to battle it out in World Cup final

 (Photo: Vatican)

It's set to be the holiest World Cup final yet, as Pope Francis' native Argentina will face Germany, the homeland of Pope Benedict XVI, on Sunday night.

In a shocking semi-final, Germany tore down host rivals Brazil with a humiliating 7-1 win earlier this week, and Argentina beat the Netherlands 4-2 in penalties after a far slower match last night in Sᾶo Paulo.

This means that the current and last Pope, both of whom are said to be huge football fans, will see their native teams battle it out on the pitch in the hopes of lifting that elusive golden trophy.

Some are cheekily suggesting that it will be a testament to who is the greatest pray-er, and perhaps even who enjoys the highest favour with God, though the two popes have prayed side-side-by side in the past, and Francis declared "We are brothers," upon meeting Benedict for the first time since his election to papacy last year.

The current Pontiff is an avid supporter of the Saints of San Lorenzo in Buenos Aires while his predecessor is said to be a fan of Bayern Munich, but each will no doubt be cheering on their respective national teams during the final on Sunday.

The question is: who will pray the hardest?

related articles
11 World Cup stars who are also Christians...

11 World Cup stars who are also Christians...

Why Pope Francis loves football
Why Pope Francis loves football

Why Pope Francis loves football

So Pope Francis is the most influential tweeter. Here are nine reasons why he\'s so popular.
So Pope Francis is the most influential tweeter. Here are nine reasons why he's so popular.

So Pope Francis is the most influential tweeter. Here are nine reasons why he's so popular.

Brazil 2014: 10 amazing God moments of the World Cup

Brazil 2014: 10 amazing God moments of the World Cup

News
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest

Of the eight children murdered during lockdown, 7 were killed thanks to the actions of a step parent or new partner.

Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fifth year running
Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fifth year running

Abortion was legalised in Northern Ireland in 2019.

Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high
Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high

Across the country, people are looking to the church for help.

Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year
Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year

Isaiah 41:10 had the highest international engagement on YouVersion during 2025, while in the UK it was Jeremiah 29:11 that topped the list.