A Spanish marine biologist has named a newly discovered species of sea slug after Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, recognising his performances during the country's debut campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The species, Aldisa vozinha, was described by Jesús Ortea, a professor of animal biology and zoology at the University of Oviedo, in his June paper *Historias de la Bioadversidad*. The name translates to "Vozinha's sea slug."
Ortea said the species was dedicated to Vozinha, who captained Cape Verde's defence in its opening World Cup match against Spain.
"The species is dedicated to Vozinha, goalkeeper of the Cape Verde soccer team, Spain's first rival in the 2026 World Cup," the paper states.
Vozinha, 40, emerged as one of Cape Verde's standout performers at the tournament. His performance in a goalless draw against Spain drew international attention and helped establish him as one of the competition's most talked-about goalkeepers. Cape Verde advanced to the Round of 32 in its first-ever World Cup appearance.
According to The New York Times, Aldisa vozinhai is a previously unknown marine mollusk measuring about four millimetres in length and distinguished by its red colouring.
Ortea identified the species during research conducted in Caribbean waters near Havana, Cuba, and the island of Guadeloupe. The study was released during the World Cup, coinciding with Spain's meeting with Cape Verde.
The researcher said the naming was also intended as a tribute to the people of Cape Verde. He noted that the country's government awarded him the Medal of Environmental Merit in 2023 in recognition of his work on the archipelago's marine biodiversity.
Explaining the dedication, Ortea said honouring Vozinha reflected both the goalkeeper's performance against Spain and his appreciation for Cape Verde.
"Dedicating a species to the Cape Verde national football team's goalkeeper for his performance against La Roja is a simple tribute and a gesture of gratitude to the people of Cape Verde," he wrote.
