Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Ryan Mendes investigation reports have placed Cape Verde national football team captain under scrutiny before Friday’s World Cup Round of 32 match against Argentina national football team in Miami.
Mendes, 36, is reportedly under police investigation in New Zealand over a rape allegation involving a Brazilian woman who had been hired to work with the Cape Verde team during a FIFA Series event in March. He has not been charged with any crime.
For more World Cup and Asian football analysis, read Asia World Cup Performance Exposes The Gap Japan Nearly Closed Against Brazil, while official tournament information is available through the FIFA World Cup 2026 page.
Police Inquiry Ongoing
According to reports from the New Zealand Herald and other outlets, the woman told authorities that Mendes forced his way into her room before sexually assaulting her.
New Zealand police have confirmed that an investigation is ongoing. The Cape Verde football federation did not respond to requests for comment from The Athletic.
Mendes remains a central figure for Cape Verde on the pitch. He started all three of the country’s group-stage matches and has helped guide the nation to the knockout stage.
FIFA Responds To Allegation
A FIFA spokesperson released a statement to The Athletic about the allegations.
"FIFA takes any allegation of misconduct extremely seriously and has a clear process in place for anyone in football who wants to report an incident," read the statement.
"As a general rule, please understand that the independent judicial bodies do not comment on allegations they may or may not have received, or whether or not investigations are underway into alleged cases. Any information they may like to share will be communicated at their discretion.
"FIFA is in contact with the New Zealand authorities. Please understand we cannot comment further at this stage."
Cape Verde Face Argentina Next
The timing leaves Cape Verde preparing for the biggest match in their football history while attention also turns to their captain off the field.
Mendes is Cape Verde’s all-time leader in appearances and goals, with 101 caps and 22 goals. His experience will be vital against defending champions Argentina, but the ongoing investigation now sits over the build-up to the Miami knockout tie.
