Police in New Zealand have launched an investigation into an accusation against a Cape Verde footballer for possible sexual misconduct during the FIFA Series. The World Cup participant played two practice matches in Auckland at the end of March as part of the new tournament.
“The New Zealand Police can confirm that a report received in Auckland on April 10, 2026 is being investigated,” police said. According to the newspaper New Zealand Herald A player has been investigated for alleged sexual abuse at the team hotel following Cape Verde’s match against Chile on March 27 in Auckland.
Cape Verde, including a large number of Rotterdam-born players, has qualified for the World Cup for the first time. The country opens against Spain in Boston on June 15, faces Uruguay in Miami on June 21 and faces Saudi Arabia in Houston on June 26.
The World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico lasts from June 11 to July 19.
