Ryan Mendes, the captain of Cape Verde's national soccer team, is currently under police investigation in New Zealand due to serious allegations of rape. The accusations stem from an incident involving a Brazilian woman who was working as a translator for the team during a FIFA event in March 2026. Reports indicate that the woman has accused Mendes of sexually assaulting her during this trip.

The woman has taken steps to formally report the incident, submitting complaints to both the Cape Verdean Football Federation and FIFA. She provided medical documentation and evidence related to the alleged assault, requesting that Mendes be barred from participating in the World Cup. This situation has raised significant concerns within the soccer community, particularly given Mendes' prominent role as the team's captain.

New Zealand police have confirmed that they are actively investigating the allegations against Mendes. The investigation is focused on the claims made by the woman, who reported the incident to multiple officials within Cape Verde's soccer authority but did not receive a response. This lack of communication has added to the distress surrounding the case.

In response to the allegations, FIFA has stated that it takes any claims of misconduct seriously and is in contact with New Zealand authorities regarding the investigation. The Cape Verdean Football Federation has refrained from commenting on the specifics of the case, citing the ongoing investigation and the need to respect privacy rights.

The allegations against Mendes have cast a shadow over Cape Verde's participation in the World Cup. The team has made history by advancing to the knockout stage of the tournament for the first time, but the controversy surrounding their captain has raised questions about the team's focus and morale. Mendes played a significant role in the group stage, participating in all three matches.

As Cape Verde prepares for their upcoming match against Argentina, the situation remains tense. The team is navigating the complexities of the investigation while trying to maintain their competitive edge in the tournament. The outcome of the investigation could have lasting implications for Mendes and the team's future.