Kicking the habit: footballing nuns’ goal is to pass on word of God

The nuns, based in Italy, have heeded the advice of Pope Francis to get out more and avoid becoming old maids'

The women huddled in the centre of the pitch, to briefly strategise, to pray for Ukraine. Then the whistle blew, and to cries of Forza, sisters!" from their fans, they prepared for kick-off.

The youngest player is 27, the eldest 52, and they are among the 18 brought together from congregations across Italy to form the first national football team for nuns in the world.