Goalkeeper Vozinha Inspires New Sea Slug Species

Sun Sep 06 2026 19:06:47 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Goalkeeper Vozinha’s World Cup heroics inspire a new sea slug named after him. Learn how football meets marine biology in this quirky story!

After earning global praise at the World Cup, Cape Verde’s goalkeeper Vozinha has found a new honour – a tiny red sea slug in the Caribbean has been christened Aldisa vozinha in his name. Biologist Jesus Ortea named the species to celebrate Vozinha’s "red one" nickname after a 0‑0 backup‑stop against Spain, and to highlight his social media meteoroid growth that went from 50,000 to 17.4 million followers. The discovery shows how sport can inspire science and the small slug may raise awareness for marine conservation.

After a flash‑forward at the World Cup, Cape Verde’s goalie Vozinha has earned a special place among marine creatures.

Biologist Jesus Ortea, who spent a year exploring the Caribbean reefs, found a tiny red sea slug that reminded him of the keeper’s iconic “red one” nickname and decided to christen it Aldisa vozinha.

That move wasn’t just about naming a new species. It was a nod to the 40‑year‑old star’s heroic save‑game in a 0‑0 draw against Spain, the moment that sent his Instagram following from 50,000 to 17.4 million overnight.

Ortea’s discovery shows how sports can inspire science – and vice‑versa – and highlights the growing trend of athletes becoming ambassadors for marine conservation.

Check out the full story in the BBC’s original article to see the photo of Vozinha celebrating with fans, and read how this small slug could help raise awareness about ocean life.