A Pope of Two Halves?

According to the Daily Mirror (a paper I seldom read):

The Pope will support Germany for one half of tonight's match and Italy for the other.

Benedict XVI, who was born in Bavaria but has lived in Italy for more than 40 years, supports Bayern Munich. His personal secretary Father George Gaenswein said: "The Holy Father is always impartial and so he will be tonight. His heart will be with Germany and Italy." The Pope has tuned into all the games. Father George said: "When the match against Argentina went to penalties the other night we had to delay dinner so the Pope could watch them."

There is expected to be a lively atmosphere in his apartments during the first semi-final. Father George is supporting Germany while the Pope's four other staff will be rooting for Italy.

The Pope has taken a special interest in the Cup since organiser Franz Beckenbauer visited him last October. And he's brushed up his football knowledge after looking blank when he met Pele. Father George prompted him: "This is Pele Holy Father, the world's greatest footballer."