Socceroos seek divine intervention: Pope Francis presented with Australia jersey
Australia has gone to extraordinary lengths for victory ahead of its must-win FIFA World Cup game against Peru.
Australia has gone to extraordinary lengths for victory ahead of its must-win FIFA World Cup game against Peru — even hoping for divine intervention by recruiting the Pope as a Socceroos fan.
During a trip to the Vatican this week, Governor-general Sir Peter Cosgrove presented Pope Francis with a personalised Socceroos jersey with “Holy Father” emblazoned across the back.
The Argentinian-born pope has been given several soccer jerseys over the years, including by Peruvian officials last year.
In a video posted to the Governor-general’s Facebook page, Pope Francis jokingly asked: “Do I have to put it on now?”.
“No, no, no, just when you’re watching the game,” Mr Cosgrove said.
Mr Cosgrove, who is on a European Tour to coincide with a memorial service for the Battle of Hamel in France on July 4, also met with Vatican State Secretary Pietro Parolin to discuss a variety of topics.
“During the cordial discussion, the themes of migration, at both global and regional levels, and climate change, were considered,” the Vatican said in a statement.
“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.
“Attention then turned to the social situation of the country, and to the question of peace and stability in the entire region of the Pacific and of Asia.”
Mr Cosgrove will visit Belgium tomorrow before going to France, Spain and Portugal with a delegation of Australian business leaders.
“The business mission is the second-ever led by an Australian Governor-General,” his office said.
“The EABC (European Australian Business Council) mission will promote closer trade and investment relations with European Union nations and occurs as Australia and the European Union start negotiations toward a comprehensive and high-quality Free Trade Agreement with the EU.
“As a bloc, the EU is Australia’s second largest services export market, valued at $11.6 billion in 2016-2017.”
During the trip, the Governor-General is expected to meet Felipe VI, King of Spain, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe.
Follow the Socceroos’ must-win World Cup clash with Peru with The Australian’s live coverage tonight.
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