New species named after Cape Verde keeper Vozinha
Marine biologist Jesus Ortea has named a newly discovered sea slug species after Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, recognizing the 40-year-old's standout performances at the 2026 World Cup. The red mollusc, scientifically designated Aldisa vozinha, was identified in Caribbean waters and honours Vozinha's remarkable tournament, where his nation became the second-smallest country ever to reach the World Cup finals.
Ortea's choice reflected deliberate symbolism: the species' red colouration references Spain's national team nickname, La Roja, commemorating Vozinha's crucial goalless draw that secured Cape Verde's first-ever World Cup point. The goalkeeper's performance generated extraordinary global attention, with his Instagram followers expanding from 50,000 to over 17 million overnight. Ortea, a professor emeritus who combines marine science with football enthusiasm, has previously named species after other goalkeepers, including Costa Rica's Keylor Navas.
- Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha receives honour of having a newly discovered red sea slug species named after him (Aldisa vozinha)
- The naming celebrates his World Cup performances, particularly his crucial goalless draw against Spain; his social media following surged from 50k to 17.4 million followers
- Marine biologist Jesus Ortea deliberately chose the red-coloured mollusc to reference Spain's 'La Roja' nickname and Vozinha's historic achievement