A Feathered Mascot Takes Flight
A duck named Merlin has emerged as an unexpected mascot for Mexico’s World Cup ambitions, his image captured in a bright green and red jersey that mirrors the national team’s colors.
The footage, which shows the bird perched among a crowd of jubilant supporters after Mexico’s win over South Africa, quickly spread across social platforms, turning the bird into a symbol of good luck for fans.
Karla Gomez, a street vendor who sells beverages in Mexico City, says she never anticipated the attention but now enjoys watching strangers pause for photos with her feathered companion, who can often be seen splashing in public fountains on hot afternoons.
In a playful twist, Merlin appeared to forecast Mexico’s next encounter, positioning himself in front of a screen that highlighted a match against South Korea, effectively ‘choosing’ the opponent in a manner that delighted viewers.
With the tournament schedule placing Mexico against both South Korea and the Czech Republic, the duck’s growing popularity adds a whimsical layer to the team’s preparations, as supporters continue to blend sport with street culture.