Pope Francis has promised to stay neutral during the World Cup, and urged football fans to make the tournament a showcase for good.
The Argentinian is a well-known football fan and supporter of Buenos Aires football club.
But because of the rivalry between Brazil and Argentina he joked that he had been asked by the hosts of the 2014 World Cup to remain without bias during the tournament.
In an interview with Catalan newspaper La Vanguardia he is reported as saying: ''The Brazilians asked for neutrality. I'll keep my word because Brazil and Argentina are always opponents.''
Francis also released a video message asking football fans to use the World Cup as an opportunity to promote teamwork and solidarity rather than racism, individualism and greed.
Argentina begin their World Cup campaign against Bosnia & Herzegovina on Sunday.
Information from Associated Press was used in this report.