Merlin, a two-year-old duck in Mexico City, becomes a viral World Cup mascot after videos of him appear online showing him wearing Mexico’s national jersey and moving through the streets. Multiple outlets report that the duck’s popularity accelerates during Mexico’s World Cup-opening match, when Mexico beats South Africa. Social media users share clips and images of Merlin joining celebrations, parading in Mexico City, and appearing in the foreground of fan activity. Several sources describe Merlin as a streetside regular before he draws broader attention, and note that his outfits and presence make him stand out in tournament coverage and online posts. The Guardian and other outlets frame him as an unofficial mascot, with his sudden fame tied to the spread of social media videos during and after the opening match. Coverage across outlets remains focused on Merlin’s internet visibility and his association with Mexico’s early World Cup celebrations, rather than on any official affiliation with the tournament or team.