The allegation relates to the night of March 27, when Cape Verde were in New Zealand for friendly matches. The report says a Brazilian interpreter working with the squad told police she was assaulted after being invited to what she believed was a work meeting.
It also says the complainant received medical and psychological support, while photographs and medical records were provided to investigators. Those materials form part of an ongoing police process; they do not establish criminal responsibility.
The report says police have not yet decided whether to bring charges. That distinction is crucial as the case develops, particularly because Mendes remains a prominent figure for both club and country.
Cape Verde are due to face Argentina in the World Cup last 16 in Miami after finishing second in Group H. The report says Mendes started all three group-stage matches, highlighting his importance to a team that has reached a significant tournament stage.
His potential involvement now creates a difficult issue for Cape Verde’s football authorities and tournament organizers. Any decision over selection, captaincy or media duties must balance the presumption of innocence with safeguarding responsibilities and the need for a clear response to a serious allegation.
New Zealand’s football authorities have reportedly directed questions about the case to police, leaving the investigation as the central source of clarity.
The next developments are the police decision on possible charges and Cape Verde’s preparations for Argentina. Until then, the allegation should not be treated as proven, but the scrutiny around Mendes and the national team is unlikely to ease.