The captain of Cape Verde was under investigation

Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes has found himself at the center of a scandal after allegations of sexual abuse. This is reported by international media. According to sources, the incident allegedly took place in March 2025 during the national team's stay in New Zealand, where Cape Verde was playing a friendly match. It is reported that a local woman contacted the police with a complaint about the footballer's actions, and also allegedly filed an appeal with the Cape Verdean Football Federation and FIFA, asking them not to include the player in the bid for the 2026 World Cup. At the same time, there is currently no official confirmation of the charges or the decision of the disciplinary authorities. Despite the situation, the Cape Verde national team reached the playoffs of the World Cup for the first time in history. In the round of 16, the team will play against Argentina.