Cape Verde World Cup captain accused of raping translator on New Zealand trip

A Brazilian translator has accused the captain of Cape Verde's national soccer team of raping her during the team's March trip to New Zealand. The woman, who worked as a translator for the squad, told Brazil's Globo news outlet that the captain entered her Auckland hotel room, choked her, punched her, bit her, and raped her.

She provided photos showing bruising on her neck and said she received treatment at a clinic for survivors of sexual violence. She reported the incident to at least three officials from Cape Verde's soccer authority and received no response, according to Globo.

Complaints filed On May 10, the woman and her husband sent complaints to the Cape Verde Football Federation and FIFA that included a medical report and requested the captain be barred from the World Cup. FIFA stated it takes allegations of misconduct seriously and has a process for reporting incidents.

The organization confirmed contact with New Zealand law enforcement but declined further comment. The New Zealand Herald reported last month that police were investigating a sexual assault involving a Cape Verde team member, though the report did not name the captain.

The Independent requested comment from New Zealand police and the Cape Verde Football Association. Globo said the Cape Verde Football Association declined to comment on the complaint.