Mexico’s World Cup-opening victory against South Africa featured goals by Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez, but the real highlight was an unexpected feathered friend that truly captured the hearts of fans.
Merlin, a two-year-old duck, quickly became an internet phenomenon and the tournament’s first unofficial mascot.
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Clad in the national team’s colors, complete with a mini jersey and socks, Merlin strutted through Mexico City among thousands of ecstatic fans.
His adorable appearance soon went viral, amassing millions of views across social media platforms. Overnight, much like the magic from his namesake, Merlin enchanted the online world.
“We need to see Merlin at the stadium,” one fan commented. “This duck is already a national treasure,” stated another. “The highlight of the World Cup so far,” expressed a third.
In Mexico City, Merlin had already gained a bit of local fame.
Merlin parading through Mexico City in a Mexican national team jersey, captivating fans. (AP)
A beloved sight at fairs and events in the city’s historic center, the duck often accompanies his owner, Carla Gómez, who sells beverages from a small cart each weekend. Along their route, the duck garners plenty of curious looks, cheerful greetings, and requests for photos.
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“We don’t like leaving him alone at home; he prefers to be with us. He’s our baby,” said Gómez. “He’s the baby, the sole heir to all my possessions, and now an idol.”
Through all types of weather, Merlin accompanies Gómez and her young son Cristian as they explore some of the capital’s landmarks, including Alameda Central, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the Zócalo square. The duck holds a particularly close bond with Cristian, being a gift to the boy and becoming his inseparable friend.
“Merlin had already gained some fame selling bottled water,” said Gómez, reflecting on her pet’s surprising rise to stardom.
“He is always there with us; we never anticipated he’d become such a sensation,” she noted. “We weren’t expecting this.”
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The family now hopes that Mexico’s beloved feathered mascot will continue to bring good fortune to the host nation, which is hosting the World Cup for the third time after previous tournaments in 1970 and 1986, now co-hosting alongside Canada and the United States.
“Mexico, we support you,” said Gómez. “And Merlin is your biggest admirer.”