His Holiness Pope Francis has spent a quiet day and has completed the immediate post-operative course.

In order to optimise his medical and rehabilitation therapy, the Holy Father will remain in hospital for a few more days.

Yesterday, before the Angelus prayer, he wanted to meet some young patients from the nearby Oncology ward, with their families, who then accompanied him to the tenth floor terrace for the Marian prayer.

Afterwards, he greeted the patients on the floor and spoke briefly with the medical and nursing staff.

In the afternoon, he celebrated Holy Mass in the private chapel with the staff who assist him daily.

Sharing the joy of the victory of the Argentine and Italian national teams with those close to him, His Holiness considered the meaning of sport and its values, and the sporting ability of being able to accept any result, even defeat: “only in this way, in the face of life's difficulties, can one always put oneself on the line, fighting without giving up, with hope and trust”.