The mass was held at San Antonio Chapel, where mourners reflected on the late pope’s deep love for the sport and its values.
Francis, who died on Monday aged 88, often spoke of football as a symbol of unity and teamwork in an increasingly individualistic world.
Raised in the Flores neighbourhood, young Jorge Mario Bergoglio spent hours playing in the streets and became a devoted fan of San Lorenzo, a club founded by a priest in 1908.
Pope will be laid to rest in St Mary Major Basilica on Saturday.
