FIFA World Cup 2026: Police Investigation Against Captain of Argentina’s Next Opponent!
Miami: Tiny nation Cape Verde, with a population of just around 500,000, is making its FIFA World Cup debut this year. The team has already created history by reaching the knockout stage for the first time.
However, ahead of its biggest match, serious allegations against captain Ryan Mendes have sparked controversy.
When is Argentina vs Cape Verde?
Cape Verde will face defending champions Argentina in the Round of 32 on Saturday, July 4 (3:30 am IST).
Argentina will not take the match lightly, as the underdogs from Cape Verde have several talented players in their squad.
What Are the Allegations Against Ryan Mendes?
Ryan Mendes has been accused of sexually assaulting a woman in New Zealand during March this year.
The allegations are currently under police investigation.
What Did the Woman Allege?
Ryan played in all three of Cape Verde’s group-stage matches at the FIFA World Cup.
According to a report published by a Brazilian newspaper, the woman was working as a translator for the Cape Verde team during the FIFA Series held in New Zealand in March.
She alleged that Ryan entered her hotel room and sexually assaulted her.
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The woman reported the incident to local authorities. A medical examination reportedly found injuries to her private parts.
She also informed three officials associated with the Cape Verde football team about the alleged assault and submitted photographs of her injuries to both the police and the Brazilian newspaper.
Police Investigation Continues
No criminal charges have yet been filed against Ryan Mendes following the woman’s complaint.
However, police are continuing to investigate the case.
World Cup Round of 32 Fixtures (Indian Standard Time)
(1) Brazil vs Japan – June 29, 10:30 pm IST
(2) Germany vs Paraguay – June 30, 2:30 am IST
(3) Netherlands vs Morocco – June 30, 6:30 am IST
(4) Norway vs Ivory Coast – June 30, 10:30 pm IST
(5) France vs Sweden – July 1, 2:30 am IST
(6) Mexico vs Ecuador – July 1, 6:30 am IST
(7) England vs Congo – July 1, 9:30 pm IST
(8) Belgium vs Senegal – July 2, 1:30 am IST
(9) USA vs Bosnia & Herzegovina – July 2, 5:30 am IST
(10) Spain vs Austria – July 3, 12:30 am IST
(11) Portugal vs Croatia – July 3, 4:30 am IST
(12) Switzerland vs Algeria – July 3, 8:30 am IST
(13) Australia vs Egypt – July 3, 11:30 pm IST
(14) Argentina vs Cape Verde – July 4, 3:30 am IST
(15) Colombia vs Ghana – July 4, 7:00 am IST
Note: Canada defeated South Africa 1-0 in the first Round of 32 match. All timings are in Indian Standard Time (IST).