Cape Verde made history by reaching the knockout stages of the World Cup in their debut appearance at a major tournament. Euphoria, pride and disbelief reigned in the country of just over half a million people, but behind the sensational successes and admiration of the football public lies an ugly story.
National team captain Ryan Mendes is under investigation by New Zealand police after a Brazilian woman, who is not named in the report, accused him of rape, Globo has learned. The incident allegedly occurred in March this year at a hotel in Auckland, New Zealand, where the Cape Verdean national team was staying during friendly matches. The investigation was officially opened on April 10 this year, which did not prevent Mendes from competing at the World Championships.
The aforementioned media outlet that reported the news also published photos showing the alleged victim having a bruise on his neck. As they say, these photographs are in the police report, as well as in the medical report of the clinic that provided assistance to the Brazilian. The assessment following the alleged incident included psychological assistance.
During the alleged event, the Brazilian was at the hotel where the Cape Verde Islanders were staying and was hired as a translator, so she was in frequent contact with the players and professional staff. According to the lawsuit, the rape occurred on March 27 of this year.
According to Globo, the Brazilian reported to the police that after the first friendly match with Chile, she was invited to a meeting in one of the hotel rooms reserved for the national team. She entered the room, assuming that one of the team members needed a translator. When she realized the gathering was large, she alleges in the indictment, she returned to her room due to health concerns. Shortly after, she heard a knock on the door, and thatโs when Ryan Mendez entered the room and attacked her, according to the lawsuit. She claims he choked, beat and bit her.
According to Globo, the Brazilian woman was later treated at a clinic that helps victims of sexual violence and underwent a forensic examination. As they write, a medical report confirmed multiple bruises on the chest, neck, lips and buttocks. Having received the necessary help, the Brazilian filed a report with the police. She also stated that she had never received any support from the Cape Verde Football Association.
New Zealand police confirmed to Globo that the investigation is ongoing, but would not comment on the names of the suspects due to New Zealandโs โstrict privacy laws.โ In addition, the above-mentioned media writes that the police have collected recordings from the hotelโs CCTV cameras and have been waiting for three months for reports that will stop the investigation.
A criminal lawyer consulted by the Brazilianโs family says the procedure, which involves numerous tests, can take up to six months.
However, on May 10 this year, the Brazilian and her husband sent out-of-court notices to the Cape Verde Islands Association and FIFA with a report, alleged evidence and a request to suspend Mendes from participating in the World Cup. However, they claim that they have not received a response from FIFA.
The Cape Verdean Football Association and FIFA have yet to make an official statement on the matter.