Daniel Daga, a Nigerian midfielder, was convicted by a Norwegian court of engaging in an unconsented sexual act and was given a six-month prison sentence.
Daniel Daga, a 19-year-old player for Molde FK, was found guilty on Tuesday afternoon, March 10. The Nigerian football player was also mandated by the court to pay 10,000 Norwegian kroner in legal fees.
According to Norwegian broadcaster TV 2 Norway, the decision was in line with the penalty that the prosecution had asked for.
Astrid Bolstad, Daga’s attorney, stated that the player was taken aback by the ruling and maintains that he did nothing improper.
He is deeply distressed by the decision. Bolstad told TV 2, “He thinks everything happened with consent and he is innocent.”
She affirmed that the midfield player intends to challenge the ruling.
“The verdict is not yet enforceable in court. Bolstad stated, “Until the case is resolved, he should be treated like everyone else.” Daga has been training regularly in recent weeks.
Later on Tuesday, Molde issued a statement characterizing the situation as challenging and confirming that the player will not be chosen for games while the legal process is ongoing.
“This is a really challenging situation for all parties concerned. Molde Football Club stated, “As an employer, we have an obligation to care for our employees in a responsible manner while also having great respect for the seriousness of the case and the burden it places on all affected parties.”
“The club has decided that the player will not be included in the matchday squad until further notice due to the circumstances and the ongoing legal process.”
According to reports, Molde had said in December that Daga would temporarily refrain from training and games while the case was pending in court.
Before the 2025 season began, the midfielder signed with the Norwegian team. In 15 games, he scored three goals.
Daga played for FC One Rocket and Dakkada FC before joining Enyimba FC in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) before to his relocation to Europe.
He was the youngest member of Nigeria’s squad for the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup and played for the country’s under-20 football team.
Daga received recognition for his performances during the tournament and started every game for Nigeria until the squad was eliminated in the quarterfinals by the South Korea national under-20 football team.
