Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes accused of rape by Brazilian interpreter

Cape Verde national football team captain Ryan Mendes is under investigation after a Brazilian woman, hired as a translator by New Zealand Football for a March friendly, accused him of assault and rape. She alleges Mendes entered her hotel room, strangled, punched, bit her and raped her while she tried to defend herself. A medical report documented bruising on her neck, lips and other areas.

New Zealand police received the examination results on 10 April and confirmed the probe is ongoing as of late June, though they have not disclosed the suspect’s identity due to privacy laws. Globo reports Mendes is the alleged perpetrator. The Cape Verde football federation has not issued an official comment, while public outcry and sponsor pressure mount. Mendes has continued to feature in the team's recent matches, including the fixture against Argentina, and the victim’s appeal to FIFA for a suspension has so far received no response.