Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes investigated for alleged rape ahead of World Cup knockout match

Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes has been placed under investigation by New Zealand police for an alleged sexual assault on a Brazilian translator who accompanied the team as a language aide. The incident is reported to have occurred in March 2026 during a FIFA international break, with a formal complaint filed on 10 April 2026 in central Auckland. Police have gathered surveillance footage, photographs of bruises and a medical report documenting injuries to the victim.

The allegations emerge as Cape Verde celebrate a historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, having secured a place in the Round of 32 after a 0‑0 draw with Saudi Arabia. The team is set to face Argentina in the next match, while officials have so far taken no action to suspend Mendes pending the outcome of the investigation.

The case has prompted legal notices to both FIFA and the Cape Verde Football Federation, demanding that the player be barred from participation, but no official decision has been announced.