New Zealand police told NBC News “an allegation is under investigation” but wouldn’t confirm whether Ryan Mendes is a suspect. He hasn’t been charged.

Cape Verde’s magical ride ended Friday in the Round of 32, with the Blue Sharks falling to Lionel Messi and defending World Cup champion Argentina — as most expected. Final score: Champions 3, Cinderellas 2, in extra time — as probably very few expected.

Cape Verde shocked the world by going into extra time with Lionel Messi and Argentina in the World Cup round of 32.

By Gabriel Araujo KANSAS CITY, Missouri, July 4 (Reuters) - Argentina advanced to the World Cup last 16 with a 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde, but the reigning champions left the match with new doubts after being pushed to the brink by the tournament debutants.

Argentina's bid to become the first nation since Brazil more than 60 years ago to win back-to-back World Cups heads into the knockout rounds on Friday, as Lionel Messi and Co., face tournament darlings Cape Verde in Miami on Wednesday (6 pm ET).

Cape Verde’s soccer team has been practicing in Tampa ahead of every match in the World Cup. The team wasn’t expecting to make it far, but they’ve become a Cinderella story of sorts and advanced to the knockout stage.

Cape Verde's remarkable run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has inspired soccer fans worldwide, but an off-field investigation involving team captain Ryan Mendes has suddenly shifted attention away from one of the tournament's biggest underdog stories.