The incident reportedly occurred at the team's hotel in Auckland, New Zealand. The woman, a Brazilian national whose identity has not been disclosed, was hired by the Cape Verde Football Federation as an interpreter during the team's participation in the FIFA Series.

In her police report, the woman stated she was invited to a meeting at the hotel following Cape Verde's opening match against Chile on 27/3. Upon arrival, she realized it was a social gathering, not an official meeting, and returned to her private room. Shortly after, Mendes allegedly knocked on her door. When the interpreter opened it, the 36-year-old player reportedly forced his way into the room, choked, punched, and bit her before raping the victim.

Mendes celebrates with Cape Verde after advancing to the World Cup knockout stage, following a match against Saudi Arabia, at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, USA on 26/6. Photo: Reuters

Following the alleged assault, the woman provided police with multiple photos documenting injuries to her mouth, neck, legs, and hip area to aid the investigation. She also sought treatment at a sexual assault victim support center. Forensic examination results reportedly documented bruises on her neck, chest, and lips, along with two injuries to her intimate areas.

All medical records were transferred to New Zealand police on 10/4. However, due to strict privacy regulations, the identities of those involved were not initially disclosed.

Authorities have since extracted data from the hotel's surveillance camera system and are awaiting the final forensic examination results before deciding whether to press criminal charges against the Cape Verde captain.

The victim's family also contacted FIFA and the Cape Verde Football Federation to report the incident and request clarification of responsibilities from all involved parties. FIFA declined to comment, while the Cape Verde Football Federation has not issued an official statement.

As of now, no arrest warrant or formal charges have been issued against the Cape Verde forward. New Zealand authorities continue to investigate the incident.

Mendes started in all three of Cape Verde's group H matches. Three draws against Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia secured Cape Verde second place in group H, behind Spain, earning them a spot in the round of 16 against defending champions Argentina. In their first World Cup appearance, the island nation, with a population of only about 525,000, became the smallest nation in history to reach the knockout stage.

Vy Anh