The Cape Verdean team, which participated in the FIFA World Cup for the first time, attracted the attention of the fans by reaching the knockout stage in its first appearance.
However, Cape Verde have now suffered a major defeat in the knockout stages ahead of their match against defending champions Argentina.
Team captain and veteran striker Ryan Mendes is under police investigation for allegedly raping a woman in New Zealand.
According to media reports, a Brazilian woman who worked as a translator during the FIFA series in New Zealand in March, claimed that Ryan Mendes forced his way into her Auckland hotel room and raped her.
It was also stated in the report that a woman presented evidence and photos of physical abuse to the police.
Ryan Mendez has not yet been formally charged with a crime.
New Zealand police say a decision on legal action will only be made after the investigation and legal review is complete.
On the other hand, FIFA has announced in its statement that they take all allegations of violations very seriously and are in contact with the authorities of New Zealand on this matter, but due to the ongoing investigations, no further comment will be made.
Ryan Mendes has played all three of Cape Verde’s matches in the current World Cup.
