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Cape Verde’s remarkable FIFA World Cup campaign has been overshadowed by a serious off-field development, with captain Ryan Mendes currently under investigation by New Zealand Police following an allegation of rape made by a Brazilian woman.The allegation was first reported by Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte, which said the complaint relates to an incident that allegedly took place in March 2026 during Cape Verde’s participation in the FIFA Series in Auckland. New Zealand Police have confirmed that an investigation is ongoing, although no criminal charges have been filed against Mendes at this stage. As the investigation continues, Mendes is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
What the complaint alleges
According to the complaint reviewed by Globo Esporte, the woman is a Brazilian national living in New Zealand who was hired by New Zealand Football as an interpreter and operational liaison for the Cape Verde delegation during the FIFA Series. She alleges that after Cape Verde’s friendly against Chile, she attended what she believed was a work-related meeting at the team hotel. Upon discovering it was a social gathering, she returned to her room. The complaint alleges that Mendes later entered her room without permission, physically assaulted her and raped her.The woman reportedly submitted a detailed statement to police along with photographs of her injuries and medical records. Globo Esporte also reported that she underwent forensic examinations and received medical and psychological support following the alleged incident.
Police investigation ongoing
New Zealand Police have confirmed that the complaint, filed in April, remains under active investigation. Authorities have secured CCTV footage from the Auckland hotel and are awaiting the results of forensic examinations as part of the inquiry. Police have not publicly identified any suspect, and no arrest or formal charges have been announced.FIFA respondsFIFA acknowledged the matter in a statement, saying it treats allegations of misconduct “extremely seriously” and is in contact with New Zealand authorities. Meanwhile, FIFA has issued a statement on the matter, saying it takes “any allegation of misconduct” seriously and is in contact with the New Zealand authorities. “Please understand we cannot comment further at this stage,” FIFA was quoted as saying to USA TODAY.
World Cup campaign continues
Despite the ongoing investigation, Mendes has remained with the Cape Verde squad and has captained the team during its historic FIFA World Cup campaign. Cape Verde advanced to the knockout stage for the first time in the nation’s history and are set to face defending champions Argentina in the Round of 32.
