Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes accused of raping translator before historic FIFA World Cup 2026 run

The Blue Sharks were unbeaten during the group stage run.

Cape Verde national football team have shown some stunning efforts on their FIFA World Cup debut. They have secured a spot in the knockout stage of the mega competition.

Led by head coach Bubista, they secured a historic draw against the European champions Spain. Their attack was not at its best, but their efforts in the backline were quite noticeable as they did not let La Roja score a goal despite their 27 attempts on the goal.

Cape Verde’s 40-year-old goalkeeper, Vozinha, was a standout performer and has now become a household name after his heroics against the Spaniards.

The Blue Sharks then scored a 2-2 draw against two-time world champions Uruguay. It was another sensational effort by them, in which they showed their capabilities in the final third as well. Their final group stage game was against Saudi Arabia and they were held to a goalless draw.

Cape Verde’s captain has now been accused of raping a translator ahead of setting foot on the biggest stage of football.

Also Read: Spain’s route to FIFA World Cup 2026 final: Full knockout path

Ryan Mendes accused of sexual assault

A Brazilian woman was appointed to be the translator of the Cape Verde national football team for their FIFA World Cup campaign. She has now accused the 36-year-old Ryan Mendes of sexually assaulting her during a trip to New Zealand to play a game in March.

The New Zealand police are currently investigating the situation. They have collected security camera footage from a hotel in Auckland and are awaiting the forensic investigation results before deciding whether to charge Mendes. The victim shared pictures of injuries to her mouth, neck, leg, and side, which were also handed to the police.

The New Zealand media reported the alleged sexual assault during the last month, but the name of the player was not revealed.

While giving her statement, the woman mentioned that she was hired by the Cape Verde national football team for their games ahead of the mega competition. After their game against Chile, the Brazilian translator was invited to a meeting in one of the hotel rooms.

The woman returned to her room after she realised that it was a social gathering. The translator further mentioned that she heard knocking on the door of her room. After opening the door, Mendes allegedly forced his way into her room, throttled, punched, and bit her, before raping her.

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