Merlin the duck conquers hearts at the 2026 World Cup

Home International Merlin the duck conquers hearts at the 2026 World Cup
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June 19, 2026June 19, 2026By Mario Vásquez
Merlin the duck conquers hearts at the 2026 World Cup

At just two years old, wearing a green shirt from the Mexican National Team and with a peculiar habit of accompanying “his family” through the streets of Mexico City, Marline He has become one of the most talked about characters of the 2026 World Cup.

His story began to gain notoriety during the celebrations for Mexico’s victory against South Africa in the opening match of the tournament. While hundreds of fans celebrated in the streets, the duck appeared walking through the crowd wearing socks and the national team’s shirt, a scene that was quickly captured by mobile phones and spread on social networks.

Since then, videos of the bird have accumulated thousands of views and have been picked up by international media. His image has even appeared on articles and accessories marketed outside of Mexico, confirming the reach of a viral phenomenon that continues to grow.

During the program Direct Impactof Guatevisionthe history of Marline.

From the streets of Mexico City to the networks of the world

Merlín lives with a family dedicated to selling soft drinks around the Historic Center of Mexico City. Every weekend he accompanies his owners during the working day and has become a well-known figure among merchants, tourists and clients.

During the program, analysts highlighted that many fans already consider him “an unofficial image of this football festival”due to the sympathy he generates among those who meet him on the streets or know him through social networks.

During the program it was also highlighted that ducks are intelligent, curious animals and capable of recognizing human faces, characteristics that could explain the ease with which Merlin adapts to the busy environments where he usually accompanies his owners. (Photo: Prensa Libre, Guatevisión, Impacto Directo).

They also highlighted that its popularity arose spontaneously, driven by videos that show the duck walking calmly among crowds while wearing the colors of the Mexican team.

“This is not an ugly duckling, it is a cute duckling“, they commented during the broadcast when referring to the bird that has become one of the most unexpected sensations of the tournament.

One more member of the family

Merlin’s “Family” ensures that the duck receives special treatment and is part of his daily life. According to what they have reported in different interviews, it is the third duck to arrive at the home after one of their previous pets died after being poisoned.

His owner explained that she spent time taming him so that he could accompany them during their daily activities. First he used a harness to get him used to noise, avenues and crowds, until he was able to walk freely with them.

Merlin follows his family through the streets and stays close while they work. Analysts pointed out that the bond between the bird and its owners is evident and highlighted the care it receives.

“He’s my baby and I don’t want to leave him alone“, its owner has expressed in interviews.

The duck diet that became famous

In addition to its popularity, another aspect that has attracted attention is its diet.

The family explained that Merlin maintains a diet composed of special food for birds of his species, fruits, vegetables and proteins. However, he has a particular taste that also became a topic of conversation among social media users.

With socks and the colors of Mexico, Marline It attracts photographs and videos from fans who follow its story on social networks. (Photo: Prensa Libre, Guatevisión, Impacto Directo).

Every Sunday he receives a carnitas taco as a reward, one of his favorite foods.

While his image continues to circulate on digital platforms and international media, the so-called “world cup duck” He continues to tour the streets of Mexico City, where every day he attracts new photographs, videos and expressions of affection from fans who have adopted him as one of the most endearing characters of the 2026 World Cup.

The popularity of the bird has been such that, according to information released by Mexican media, representatives of FIFA have sought contact with Merlin’s family for a possible rapprochement during World Cup activities. However, so far there has been no official information about the details or purpose of that eventual meeting.

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