Today is a very special day for the Super Chivas goalkeeper. | OneFootball

Today we celebrate the 56th birthday of one of the most reliable and beloved goalkeepers in the history of the Rebaño Sagrado: Martín 'El Pulpo' Zúñiga. A champion with Chivas in the summer of 1997, he was part of that legendary squad known as "Las Súper Chivas" led by Ricardo Ferretti.

But why was he nicknamed 'El Pulpo'? The nickname came about when he started his career with the Tigrillos in the Third Division. The local fans began calling him that because he seemed to have "eight arms" thanks to his cat-like reflexes. That nickname stayed with him throughout his career and became part of his identity before the entire Rojiblanca Nation.

One of the most memorable moments of his career occurred on June 1, 1997, when he lived one of his dreams: playing in the final with Chivas Rayadas de Guadalajara as the starting goalkeeper. It was an unforgettable afternoon that culminated in a 6-1 victory over Toros Neza and the 1997 Summer Tournament title.

In an interview, Zúñiga recalled that, even though they knew Toros Neza was a formidable opponent, the whole team saw themselves as champions. They were coming off a 1-1 draw in the first leg, so they knew they had to finish strong at home. What they didn't imagine was the magical night they were about to experience at Jalisco Stadium.

For 'Pulpo', one of the most memorable plays of the match was not a goal, but a defensive action: a play by 'Pony' Ruiz that forced him to cover the near post. Although he managed to block the shot, the ball went past him, but Camilo Romero, well positioned, cleared it almost on the line. It was a play they had rehearsed frequently in training, and at that moment it prevented the match from tilting in Neza's favor.

The Rojiblancos had a brilliant first half, despite the scorching sun in Guadalajara. In the second half, they came out determined to enjoy the game and let loose completely: the first goal came in the 51st minute, and from there, the Rojiblancos unleashed a storm that ended in a historic victory, lifting the cup with a resounding 6-1 win.

"The support from the fans was incredible, it's extra fuel for the players," recalled Zúñiga. He also relived the euphoria after the final whistle, when the fans invaded the pitch to celebrate with the players.

An unforgettable story, one that still lives on in the memory of thousands of fans and that established 'Pulpo' as one of the great icons in the history of Club Deportivo Guadalajara.

Happy birthday, Pulpo!