World Cup: FIFA responds after rape complaint revealed against Ryan Mendes, Cape Verde captain | OneFootball

FIFA said in a statement to Globo that it is in contact with New Zealand authorities after the Brazilian outlet revealed a rape complaint against Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes at the World Cup.

The governing body said it takes all misconduct allegations extremely seriously and has a clear reporting process. It added that its independent judicial bodies do not comment on whether complaints have been received or if cases are under investigation, and it would not comment further at this stage.

According to the complainant’s testimony, on 27 March she was staying in the same hotel as the Cape Verde squad while working as an interpreter when Mendes allegedly entered her room, strangled her, punched and bit her as she tried to defend herself, and raped her.

New Zealand police opened an investigation on 10 April after the Brazilian woman filed a complaint. The winger came through Le Havre and also played for Lille.

On 10 May, the woman and her husband are said to have sent extrajudicial notifications to the Cape Verde federation and to FIFA, including an account of events, supporting material, and a request to exclude Mendes from the World Cup. They say they have received no reply. A WhatsApp exchange published by the report indicated a federation official told her it was a personal matter for Mendes.

Mendes, 36, is his country’s most-capped player with 99 appearances and their record scorer on 22 goals. He played Cape Verde’s first three World Cup matches. The Blue Sharks are into the round of 32, facing Argentina on four July at midnight French time.

Source: L'Équipe