In 2004, Mendoza signed with Metalurh Donetsk,[2] which loaned him twice during his link. After his release, he moved countries again in 2008: after a short spell with Steaua Bucureşti, he joined Monarcas Morelia in Mexico, being the second best goalscorer in the league's Apertura 2008, with 10 goals in 16 games.
Mendoza made his debut with Peru in 1999, becoming a regular fixture in the following years. He represented the nation at two Copa América tournaments: 2004 and 2007, totalling seven scoreless appearances.
After a failed campaign to qualify for the 2006 FIFA World Cup, he was called by national coach Julio César Uribe for a two-friendly match squad against Ecuador, in June 2007. He was used as a substitute the first game against their northern neighbors (win), and started in the second (2–0 loss).
On 7 December 2007, Mendoza was one in a group of internationals that were found guilty of having introduced women and alcohol into the national squad's hotel two days before Peru's away drubbing at the hands of Ecuador (5–1, in which he scored), being subsequently banned for one and a half years from representing Peru.[6] Months later he was the only one who did not get his suspension eliminated after all the other player's suspensions were reduced.
Career statistics
Scores and results list Peru's goal tally first.[7]
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