“他现在成了偶像”：鸭子梅林如何成为墨西哥病毒式的世界杯“吉祥物”

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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.

Dressed in the national team’s colours, complete with a miniature jersey and socks, Merlin paraded through Mexico City amidst thousands of jubilant fans.

Images of the sartorially splendid duck quickly went…