Cape Verde captain Mendes accused of rape ahead of Argentina clash

Cape Verde national football team captain, Ryan Mendes, has been accused of rape by a team translator who previously worked with the squad.

According to Brazil’s Globo news outlet, the translator, a Brazilian woman, claimed she was sexually assaulted while serving as the team’s translator during their trip to New Zealand for a match in March.

In her statement to New Zealand police, she narrated how the incident unfolded in a forceful manner.

2026 World Cup: Black Stars take giant step towards knockout stage with England draw

"I was hired by Cape Verde’s soccer team for their games in the FIFA Series in New Zealand. After the first match against Chile, I was invited to a meeting in one of the hotel rooms reserved for the national side.

"But when I realized I wasn’t needed for translating and that it was a social gathering, I returned to my room. Shortly after, I heard knocking on the door. When I opened it, Mendes allegedly forced his way in, throttled, punched, and bit me before raping me," the statement read as reported on June 28, 2026.

She also provided police with photos of injuries to her mouth, neck, leg, and side.

After the case became public, FIFA stated that it is in contact with New Zealand officials to stay updated, stressing that misconduct allegations are taken seriously.

Mendes, who captained Cape Verde to the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has not yet commented on the allegations.

The team is preparing to face reigning world champions Argentina in a high-stakes game on July 3, 2026, with their captain remaining focused on the tournament despite the controversy.

SB/VPO

Watch highlights of 2026 edition of GhanaWeb 'Walk with Dad' event at Aburi