When Mexico opened its World Cup campaign with a 2‑0 win over South Africa, the celebrations spilling onto Reforma Avenue were already a sight to behold. Among the cheering crowds, a small duck waddled through the throng, sporting a bright green and red jersey emblazoned with the national team’s crest.
From a Street Vendor’s Stall to a National Symbol
The duck’s owner, Karla Gomez, has run a modest beverage stand in the historic district for years alongside her son Christian. She never imagined that her pet, whom she named Merlin, would become an internet sensation overnight.
Gomez recalls the moment the footage began circulating: “I was just trying to keep the duck cool in the fountain when strangers started gathering, snapping photos, and asking for selfies. I never expected this level of attention.”
Fans now line up to meet the feathered mascot, often pausing their own match‑watching rituals to pose with Merlin, who can be seen splashing in public fountains on hot afternoons. The duck’s casual demeanor has turned him into a beloved figure among both locals and tourists.
Even the world of sports predictions has not been immune. In a playful nod to his newfound fame, Merlin recently ‘chose’ Mexico over South Korea for an upcoming group‑stage match, a whimsical forecast that has sparked smiles across social media.
Mexico’s next challenge arrives on June 24, when the team faces the Czech Republic in a crucial Group A encounter. While the squad prepares on the pitch, Merlin continues to patrol the streets, his jersey a constant reminder of the country’s spirited support.
The phenomenon underscores how sport can transcend stadium walls, weaving everyday characters into the larger story of a tournament. For now, Merlin’s quacks echo louder than any chant, and his presence reminds fans that the World Cup is as much about community as it is about competition.