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New Zealand police dismiss rape allegation against Ryan Mendes, charge accuser

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 6, 2026, 1:42 AM

Last updated Nov 6, 2026

New Zealand police dismiss rape allegation against Ryan Mendes, charge accuser

Summary

New Zealand police have dismissed a rape allegation against Cape Verde soccer captain Ryan Mendes. The allegation, linked to an incident in March at a hotel in Auckland following a friendly match against Chile, has not been substantiated. The accuser, a 40-year-old woman, is charged with making a false statement. Mendes' lawyer stated that the allegation caused significant media scrutiny, impacting Mendes as Cape Verde prepared for the 2026 World Cup. Mendes expressed relief at the outcome and hopes for equal media attention regarding his exoneration.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•New Zealand police found no evidence to support the allegation against Mendes.
•The incident occurred after Cape Verde's match against Chile, which ended 4-2 in favor of Chile.
•Mendes' lawyer noted intense media speculation surrounding the allegation.
•The accuser is required to appear in court next week under New Zealand law.
•Mendes is Cape Verde's most capped player with 103 appearances.

Latest Updates

1:42 AMYahoo Sports — New Zealand police dismiss rape allegation against Cape Verde soccer captain and charge accuser

What they're saying

"
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand police have dismissed a rape allegation against Cape Verde soccer captain Ryan Mendes and have charged the accuser with making a false statement.Detective Inspector Scott Beard said Friday the claim that a sexual assault occurred at a central Auckland hotel in March had not been substantiated.
— Yahoo Sportsby STEVE McMORRAN

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