Merlín, the Mexico-loving duck who's stolen hearts across the country, was cruelly denied access to El Tri's recent match against Czechia. Despite a public outcry for his attendance, FIFA rules proved unbeatable, leaving this lovable mascot quacking on the outside looking in.
The two-year-old duck's rise to fame has been nothing short of phenomenal – think David vs Goliath, but with a feathered twist! Clad in a vibrant green Mexico jersey, Merlín has captured the nation's imagination, from public appearances to TV slots and even a meeting with President Claudia Sheinbaum. This charming bird is, without a doubt, El Tri's unofficial good luck charm.
As his devoted owner Carla Gómez and her son Cristian navigated the Estadio Azteca perimeter, Merlín was allowed to film a segment for Televisa – but alas, no further than that! The duck's journey was a closely guarded one, with security measures in place to ensure his comfort. Fans eager to catch a glimpse of this social media sensation swarmed around the transport crate, all clamouring to get a peek at the now-famous feathered friend.
Despite the setback, Gómez remains resolute in her faith that Merlín's luck will shine through. "We're eternally grateful for this whirlwind experience," she declared to the Associated Press. As the nation holds its breath for the next match, Gómez is convinced: "Merlín is a lucky charm – with him on our side, El Tri will triumph once more!"
This heartwarming tale serves as a reminder of the unforgettable moments that can emerge during global events like the World Cup. Merlín's journey from local curiosity to international celebrity is a testament to the power of sports to bring people together in ways both big and small.