Cape Verde Captain Ryan Mendes Under Investigation Ahead of Argentina World Cup Clash. (Image: Internet)
New Delhi: Cape Verde’s remarkable FIFA World Cup campaign has been hit by controversy after captain Ryan Mendes was reportedly investigated in connection with an alleged sexual assault case in New Zealand.
The allegations have emerged just days before Cape Verde’s Round of 32 match against Argentina, led by Lionel Messi. Mendes has played in all three of Cape Verde’s group-stage games during the team’s historic tournament journey.
According to reports from Brazilian outlet Globo, Mendes is accused of assaulting a Brazilian woman who was working as a translator with the Cape Verde national team during the FIFA Series event held in New Zealand in March 2026.
The report claimed the woman alleged that Mendes entered her hotel room in Auckland and sexually assaulted her. She reportedly informed authorities and underwent a forensic medical examination.
Globo further reported that medical findings included injuries, though the investigation remains ongoing and no criminal charges have been confirmed.
FIFA said it was aware of the allegations and takes any claims of misconduct seriously. The football governing body confirmed it was in contact with relevant authorities in New Zealand but did not provide further details.
Cape Verde’s football authorities have not issued a public statement regarding the matter. The national team also did not respond to requests for comment, according to reports.
The controversy comes as Cape Verde are enjoying one of the biggest achievements in their football history. The island nation advanced to the knockout stage after an unbeaten group-stage performance against strong opponents.
Led by experienced goalkeeper Vozinha, Cape Verde have become one of the tournament’s surprise teams. Their upcoming clash against Argentina is scheduled for July 4, with global attention now focused both on the match and the investigation surrounding their captain.
