Mexico’s 2-0 win over South Africa to open the 2026 World Cup was a statement. Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez got the goals. But the real story of the night was a two-year-old duck named Merlin, who has somehow become the tournament’s first unofficial mascot.
Pictures of Merlin strutting through Mexico City in a miniature Mexican jersey — complete with tiny socks — have exploded online, racking up millions of views. Fans have called him a national treasure and the best thing about the World Cup so far. One person wrote, “We want to see Merlin in the stadium.”
But Merlin isn’t just a viral moment. He’s been a fixture in Mexico City’s historic center for months, long before the World Cup kicked off. His owner, Carla Gómez, sells water and sodas from a cart each weekend, and Merlin tags along. Rain or shine, he follows Gómez and her young son, Cristian, through landmarks like Alameda Central and the Zócalo.
“We don’t like to leave him alone at home; we like him to be with us. He’s our baby,” Gómez said. “He’s the baby, the sole heir to all my possessions and now an idol.”
Originally a gift for Cristian, Merlin became the boy’s inseparable companion. He also became a local celebrity in his own right — drawing squeals and photo requests from passersby at fairs and events. “Merlin had already become famous for selling bottled water,” Gómez added, still surprised by how quickly the internet latched on.
“He is always with us; we never imagined he’d become such a sensation,” she said. “We weren’t expecting it.”
Now, the family hopes the duck can keep delivering good vibes for Mexico, which is co-hosting the tournament with Canada and the United States. It’s the third time the country has staged the World Cup, after 1970 and 1986. “Mexico, we are with you,” Gómez said. “And Merlin is your No. 1 fan.”
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