(ANSA) - VATICAN CITY, JUL 12 - Pope Francis, recovering from colon surgery at a Rome hospital, cheered for Italy's win in Euro 2020 and Argentina's victory in the Copa America, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said Monday.
"In sharing the joy for the Argentine and Italian national teams' victory with the persons close to him," said Bruni, "His Holiness dwelt on the significance of sport and its values, and on that sporting capacity to be able to accept any result, even defeat: 'only this way, faced with life's difficulties, can you always get into the game, fighting without surrendering, with hope and faith".
Italy beat England 4-3 on penalties and Argentina beat Brazil one nil.
Bruni added that Francis would remain in hospital "for a few days more" after his surgery a week ago Sunday.
The pope delivered his angelus blessing from the window of his room at the Gemelli Hospital on Sunday. (ANSA).
Pope happy at Italy, Argentina wins
Francis says sport can accept any result