[Sportschosun, Jang Jong-ho] Celebration over Cape Verde's miraculous advance to the round of 32 in its first-ever World Cup appearance has been overshadowed by a troubling development.
Team captain Ryan Mendes, 36, is reportedly under police investigation over a rape allegation in New Zealand.
According to foreign media outlets including Globo and The Sun, New Zealand Police have been investigating the allegation against Mendes since April.
The woman who accused him is a Brazilian national and was reportedly the interpreter contracted by New Zealand Football for the Cape Verde team at the time.
The incident is said to have occurred in March, while the Cape Verde national football team was in Auckland for a friendly match.
She said she was called to the team hotel room for interpretation work, but found a private gathering taking place there.
She later returned to her room because she felt unwell, and claimed that Mendes came to her door after she heard knocking and opened it.
The woman reportedly told investigators that Mendes forced his way into the room, sexually assaulted her, and then choked, punched, and bit her when she tried to escape.
Photos taken shortly after the incident showed injuries around her mouth and bruises on her neck and legs. Foreign media also reported that a forensic examination at a hospital confirmed multiple bruises and wounds.
The victim is also said to have received psychological counseling during treatment. She reportedly informed the Cape Verde Football Federation as well, but said she received little help.
New Zealand Police are analyzing hotel CCTV footage and related evidence, and are reportedly reviewing whether to file charges.
Mendes currently plays for Iğdır FK in Türkiye's second division and started all three group-stage matches at the World Cup.
So far, neither Mendes' side nor the Cape Verde Football Federation has issued an official statement on the allegation.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde, the African island nation with a population of 520,000, finished second in Group H of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying stage with three draws and advanced directly to the round of 32 alongside Spain.
Jang Jong-ho bellho@sportschosun.com
