Argentina's World Cup struggles could gift Australia a new fan, with the Pope now able to cheer on the Socceroos wearing his personalised jersey.
Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove has had an audience with the Argentinian-born Pope at the Vatican and presented him with a jersey with Holy Father on the back.
Sir Peter is on a state tour of Europe and will next week represent Australia at the centenary commemorations for the Battle of Hamel.
“During the cordial discussion, the themes of migration, at both global and regional levels, and climate change, were considered,” a Vatican statement said after the meetings.
“Mention was also made of the role of the Church in Australian society, and the current discussion on the protection of minors and vulnerable people, reiterating the commitment of all members of the Church in this regard.”
The two sides also reviewed the “social situation” of Australia and the “question of peace and stability in the entire region of the Pacific and of Asia.”
