The Duck That Upstaged Mexico's World Cup Victory

Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez found the net, but a two-year-old duck in a miniature jersey became the tournament's first viral sensation. Meet Merlin, the Mexico City street vendor's companion who went from weekend water-seller to unofficial national mascot overnight.

Merlin's Stats

• Age2 years
• Regular jobWater cart assistant
• Social media reachMillions of views
• Local beatAlameda Central to Zócalo
• StatusNational treasure

From Street Vendor to Stadium Sensation

While Mexico opened their World Cup campaign with goals from Quiñones and Jiménez in a 2-0 win over South Africa, the real scene-stealer was waddling through Mexico City's streets in the national team's colors. Merlin, dressed in a miniature jersey and socks, paraded alongside thousands of celebrating fans—and the internet couldn't get enough.

Images of the impeccably dressed duck exploded across social media, racking up millions of views within hours. "We want to see Merlin in the stadium," one user demanded. "This duck is already a national treasure," declared another. A third simply called him "the best thing about the World Cup so far."

But in Mexico City's historic center, Merlin was already a somebody. Every weekend, he accompanies his owner Carla Gómez, who sells water and soft drinks from a cart around landmarks like Alameda Central, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the Zócalo. The duck attracts a steady stream of delighted passersby—squeals, photo requests, affectionate greetings.

"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."

The Boy and His Duck

Merlin was originally a gift for Gómez's young son Cristian, and the two have become inseparable. Rain or shine, the duck follows the family through the capital's best-known streets, developing what Gómez describes as a particularly close bond with the boy.

"Merlin had already become famous for selling bottled water," Gómez recalled, still surprised by the sudden explosion of attention. "He is always with us; we never imagined he'd become such a sensation. We weren't expecting it."

Now the family hopes their feathered companion can bring luck to Mexico as the nation co-hosts the World Cup alongside Canada and the United States—the third time Mexico has staged the tournament after 1970 and 1986.

"Mexico, we are with you," Gómez said. "And Merlin is your No. 1 fan."

What Makes Merlin Special

The Outfit (Fashion)

Complete miniature Mexico kit—jersey, socks, the works. Dressed in the national colors, Merlin looks like he's ready to waddle onto the pitch himself.

The Routine (Daily Life)

Every weekend at fairs and events across Mexico City's historic center, helping Gómez sell water while collecting admirers and photo ops along the way.

The Bond (Family)

Given as a gift to young Cristian, Merlin has become the boy's constant companion, joining the family everywhere they go—never left alone at home.

The Fame (Viral)

Already a local celebrity before the World Cup, but Mexico's opening victory launched him into millions of feeds overnight. By internet decree, he's now a national treasure.

FAQ

It's unclear whether stadium regulations would allow a duck inside, but fans are already campaigning for it. For now, Merlin's official duties remain on the streets of Mexico City, where he's most comfortable—and most recognizable.

According to Carla Gómez, absolutely. The duck isn't just a pet or a marketing gimmick—he's family. Gómez and her son treat him as the baby of the household, with all the privileges that come with it.

Merlin's name references the legendary wizard, and given his seemingly magical ability to captivate the internet overnight, it's fitting. The duck's rise to fame felt instant, almost conjured.