Pope Francis reveals World Cup allegiance: Peru over USA, with Italy also favored

In a fascinating glimpse into the personal allegiances of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, who holds dual citizenship from the United States and Peru, has indicated a preference for Peru in a hypothetical World Cup showdown against his birth nation. This revelation, stemming from an interview with Crux Now Media, adds a unique layer to the global passion surrounding football.

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Dobro pitanje, vjerojatno Peru.

While the Pope, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, is a proud American, his extensive missionary work and service as a bishop in Peru have forged deep emotional ties to the South American nation. He explained his leaning towards Peru in a match scenario was "just for emotional ties, if you will." His support extends further, encompassing Italy, a nation he also "greatly admires," despite their recent World Cup qualification struggles.

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Samo zbog emocionalnih veza, ako hoćete

These comments have recently gained traction online, particularly among US soccer fans, some of whom have reacted with frustration. However, the Pope has consistently emphasized his strong connection to the United States, stating, "Obviously I am American and I feel very American." This nuanced position highlights how individuals, even those in the highest office, can maintain complex emotional loyalties shaped by both birth and life experience. The fact that neither Peru nor Italy qualified for this year's tournament means the hypothetical scenario remains just that, but the Pope's words offer a unique perspective on national identity and global sports fandom.

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Također sam veliki obožavatelj Italije. Na razini Svjetskog prvenstva uglavnom bih pratio tri reprezentacije. Spomenuli ste dvije, a Italija bi bila treća