In a series of shocking events, Cape Verde, the team who etched a wonder story in the ongoing FIFA World Cup has met with a big setback. Cape Verde's captain Ryan Mendes has been accused of rape in New Zealand just before the Round of 32 clash against Argentina.
Big controversy for Cape Verde in FIFA World Cup 2026
As per a latest report by Brazilian publication Globo, Mendes is accused of sexually assaulting a woman who worked with the national team during the FIFA series
held in New Zealand in March 2026. The report further states that no call has been taken on if the criminal charges should be filed, as the investigations are still going on, including forensic analysis.
FIFA addressed the news in a statement carried by USA Today, saying the body takes “any allegation of misconduct” with utmost priority and confirmed that it was in direct touch with the authorities in New Zealand.
All you need to know about the allegations?
The victim hails from Brazil who was working with the Cape Verde national team as a translator during the competition, which was held in New Zealand. According to the victim, Mendes entered her hotel room and assaulted her physically and sexually. Reportedly, the woman informed the local authorities and went through a sexual assault examination.
As per the report by Globo, the medical test revealed several injuries on the woman, consisting of vaginal lesions as well as bruises on her chest, neck and lips. The report further claims that she submitted the pictures of the injuries to the police and later shared the same images with Globo.
The report also alleged that the woman informed three officials working with the Cape Verde football team regarding the assault. However, she did not get any response from the national side.
So far, Cape Verde's football authorities have not shared any public statement on the allegations. USA Today also reported that the national team did not entertain its request for comment.
Next challenge for Cape Verde in FIFA World Cup 2026
Amid the recent controversy, Cape Verde have qualified for the knockout stage in their maiden World Cup appearance. They finished second in their Group H by drawing all three games against Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.
They are all set to face Argentina in their Round of 32 clash on July 4 (as per IST) at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.