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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Nayara Batschke

How Merlin the duck became Mexico’s viral World Cup ‘mascot’

Merlin Mexico World Cup Julián Quiñones Raúl Jiménez Mexico City Cristian

Mexico's World Cup-opening victory over South Africa saw goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez, but it was an unexpected feathered friend who truly stole the show.

Merlin, a two-year-old duck, swiftly became an internet sensation and the tournament’s inaugural unofficial mascot.

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