Mexico City duck Merlin goes viral as unofficial World Cup mascot
What's new: The 2-year-old duck was already a local fixture, following owner Carla Gómez through the Zócalo and Alameda Central.
Merlin, a 2-year-old duck that walks Mexico City's streets in a Mexico jersey and socks, became an online hit after Mexico's World Cup-opening win over South Africa. Photos and video of the bird moving through celebrating crowds spread across social media and drew millions of views, turning Merlin into an unofficial mascot of the tournament's early days. Owner Carla Gómez said the duck is a regular companion as she sells water and soft drinks from a cart on weekends. Merlin often travels with Gómez and her son Cristian through central landmarks including the Zócalo, Alameda Central and the Palace of Fine Arts.