World Cup 2026: Cape Verde's captain faces a serious legal issue!

07.07.26 FT World Cup

Argentina

3

:

Egypt

2

New Zealand police have launched an investigation into Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes following a rape allegation dating back to March 2026.

According to geglobo, authorities have been probing the case since April, meticulously reviewing evidence that includes witness accounts and medical records submitted by the accuser. The complainant, who served as a translator during Cape Verde's stay in the country, has formally lodged her complaint with law enforcement. She has also reached out to multiple football governing bodies—among them FIFA and the Cape Verde Football Federation—urging them to launch their own inquiry and consider disciplinary measures.

The New Zealand police have confirmed that their investigation remains active, though they have refrained from offering specifics, citing the confidential nature of the proceedings. FIFA and other football authorities, for their part, have opted to remain silent publicly on the matter.

Mendes, a 36-year-old forward currently plying his trade with Turkish club Igdir, has continued to feature for Cape Verde at the World Cup. His team has successfully navigated their way to the knockout rounds, where they are scheduled to face Argentina in the round of 32.

Hazem Mlhem |

Editorar, en

Hazem Mlhem est un rédacteur sportif expérimenté, animé par une passion pour le football africain.

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Argentina/Cape Verde

Australia/Egypt

World Cup