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Ryan Mendes stands with Cape Verde surprisingly in the World Cup Round of 16.
© Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images
Severe allegations overshadow Cape Verde’s fairy tale at the World Cup: Captain Ryan Mendes is under investigation by New Zealand police for suspected rape. A Brazilian translator has accused the player of assaulting her in a hotel. FIFA has responded with a statement.
The captain of the Cape Verde national team, Ryan Mendes (36), is being investigated by New Zealand police over allegations of rape. A Brazilian translator, who assisted the team during two friendlies in March, claims that the World Cup player sexually assaulted her in a hotel in Auckland. This was reported by Brazilian broadcaster “Globo”. Mendes is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
According to descriptions received by “Globo”, the incident allegedly took place on March 27, the night after a friendly match against Chile (2:4). The woman, employed by the New Zealand football association as an interpreter and caretaker for the Cape Verde squad, was asked to enter a room reserved for the team. She believed she was going there to translate, only to realize it was a private meeting, and she subsequently returned to her room.
Shortly thereafter, she heard a knock at her door. Upon opening it, Mendes allegedly forced his way in, physically assaulted her, and then raped her. She claimed to have photographed injuries to her mouth, neck, and leg while still in the hotel, and a forensic examination from a medical facility documented multiple bruises.
Police Confirm Ongoing Investigations
The New Zealand police have confirmed the case, without providing details or names. “New Zealand police can confirm that a report is being investigated that was made to us on April 10, 2026, in the Central Auckland region,” the police stated according to “Reuters.” Investigators have already reviewed hotel surveillance footage and are waiting for the results of the forensic examination before deciding on any charges.
According to the couple, they had already contacted the Cape Verde football federation and FIFA in May to seek a World Cup suspension for the player. No response was initially received.
FIFA Responds; Federation Remains Silent
Later, the governing body stated that it takes every allegation of misconduct “extremely seriously” and is in contact with New Zealand authorities. The Cape Verde football federation initially made no comment, nor has Mendes himself spoken out on the issue.
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The 36-year-old plays for the Turkish club Igdir FK and featured in all three group stage matches of the World Cup. As group runners-up, the World Cup debutant Cape Verde surprisingly advanced to the knockout stage, facing Argentina next. If convicted, Mendes could face up to 20 years in prison in New Zealand. However, there is no extradition treaty between the two countries. (dr/spot)
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