The Indian Express(@IndianExpress):Not every World Cup star plays on the pitch. As World Cup fever grips Mexico City, an unexpected fan has captured the public's attention. Merlin, a domesticated duck dressed in an El Tri jersey, became an internet sensation after videos of him roaming the city's streets went viral. Owned by street vendor Karla Ivette Gomez and her son Christian, Merlin has since become a favourite among football fans, with many embracing him as an unofficial mascot during the tournament. Gomez said the attention came as a complete surprise and that her family is delighted by the affection people have shown the duck.

2026.06.19 12:26

Not every World Cup star plays on the pitch. As World Cup fever grips Mexico City, an unexpected fan has captured the public's attention. Merlin, a domesticated duck dressed in an El Tri jersey, became an internet sensation after videos of him roaming the city's streets went viral. Owned by street vendor Karla Ivette Gomez and her son Christian, Merlin has since become a favourite among football fans, with many embracing him as an unofficial mascot during the tournament. Gomez said the attention came as a complete surprise and that her family is delighted by the affection people have shown the duck.