World Cup: Cape Verde block questions on Ryan Mendes, accused of rape | OneFootball

Cape Verde’s World Cup press conference in Miami on Thursday was disrupted as press officers blocked questions about captain Ryan Mendes, who is accused of rape. The briefing took place at Hard Rock Stadium ahead of the match against Argentina.

According to L'Équipe, several dozen journalists attended. Head coach Bubista and defender Ianique Stopira spoke at length about their belief as they prepare for the round of 32, scheduled for midnight from Friday to Saturday.

The question-and-answer session was halted three times, first by Cape Verde’s press officer, then by a FIFA press officer, to refuse questions concerning Mendes.

At the outset, Cape Verde’s media officer asked that enquiries focus solely on the match.

The Blue Sharks captain is the subject of a complaint by an interpreter alleging rape during a tour in Oceania in March 2026.

Source: L'Équipe