New Zealand police investigating Cape Verde footballer following Auckland report

New Zealand Police have confirmed they are examining an allegation reported to them on 10 April 2026 in central Auckland, the force stated without offering more specifics.

The New Zealand Herald indicated that a player faces scrutiny over a claimed sexual assault at the teams hotel after Cape Verdes 27 March fixture versus Chile in Auckland.

Cape Verdes football association proved unavailable for response on Monday.

A representative from FIFA noted that the organisations global authority cannot provide input given the active probe.

New Zealand Football as the local body hosting the FIFA Series events in the country mentioned no police contact on this yet though they stand prepared to support investigations as necessary.

Cape Verde comprising islands situated along West Africas shoreline prepares for its initial World Cup appearance during the 11 June to 19 July event jointly managed by the United States Canada and Mexico.

In the group stage the side encounters previous winners Spain alongside Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.