Ryan Mendes, captain of the Cape Verde national team, has been accused of raping a Brazilian translator during the team’s trip to New Zealand in March.
According to Brazilian news outlet Globo, the woman alleged that Mendes forced his way into her hotel room after a social gathering, assaulted her and raped her. She claimed he choked, punched and bit her during the incident and later submitted photographs of her injuries to New Zealand police.
The woman said she reported the incident to officials of the Cape Verde Football Federation but received no response.
New Zealand police are investigating the allegations and have reportedly obtained hotel security footage while awaiting forensic results before deciding whether to file charges.
Mendes, 36, has not publicly responded to the allegations.
In a statement, FIFA said it is in contact with New Zealand authorities and takes allegations of misconduct “extremely seriously,” but declined to comment further on the ongoing investigation.