FIFA Rules Keep Mexico's Merlin The Duck Out Of Stadium For Group Stage Match

Merlin the duck became a viral folk hero in Mexico City — waddling around in a Mexico jersey, visiting TV studios, the presidential palace and fan zones, and charming fans online.
He was allowed onto Azteca Stadium grounds for a filmed segment but FIFA rules forbade animals from entering the stadium, so he couldn’t stay for the match.
The family secured Merlin’s name rights and will finally watch the game live — fans call him Mexico’s unofficial mascot and lucky charm.