Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes accused of rape in New Zealand

Ryan Mendes, 36, the captain of the Cape Verde national football team, has been accused of raping a Brazilian interpreter who was working for the team during a FIFA Series tour in Auckland, New Zealand. The alleged incident took place on 27 March 2026 in the team’s hotel after a test match against Chile. The woman says Mendes forced his way into her room, assaulted, strangled, beat and raped her. She photographed bruises on her mouth, neck and leg and later received a forensic report documenting multiple hematomas and other injuries.

The victim filed a police report on 10 April. New Zealand police confirmed they are investigating the allegation, have reviewed hotel‑camera footage and are awaiting forensic results. If convicted, the offender could face up to 20 years in prison, although no extradition treaty exists between New Zealand and Cape Verde.

The complainant also contacted the Cape Verde Football Federation and FIFA, seeking Mendes’ removal from the World Cup. Both bodies have not responded to the requests. FIFA issued a statement saying it “treats any complaint of inappropriate conduct with the utmost seriousness” and confirmed it is in contact with New Zealand authorities, adding that it cannot comment further at this stage.

Mendes, who plays for Turkish second‑division side Igdir FK, appeared in all three group‑stage matches, helping Cape Verde become the smallest nation ever to reach the round of 16, where they will face Argentina.