Key Developments in the Case of Daniel Daga
On March 11, 2026, Daniel Daga, a player for Molde FK, was sentenced to six months in prison for committing a sexual act without consent. This ruling was delivered by the Nordmøre og Romsdal District Court, marking a significant moment in Daga’s career and personal life.
Prior to this verdict, Daga had joined Molde FK in January 2025 and had made 17 appearances for the team, scoring three goals. His performance on the field had garnered attention, particularly as he represented Nigeria’s U20 team at the 2023 and 2025 FIFA U20 World Cups, building a reputation on the international stage.
Following the court’s decision, Daga was ordered to pay NOK 10,000 in legal costs, which is approximately 1.45 million Nigerian currency. His lawyer, Astrid Bolstad, confirmed that Daga intends to appeal the ruling, stating, “He is terribly sorry that the verdict was the way it was. He believes he is innocent and that everything happened with consent.”
In light of the verdict, Molde FK announced that Daga will not be part of the match squad until further notice. The club emphasized the seriousness of the matter, with a spokesperson stating, “This is a very demanding matter for all involved.” They also noted their responsibility to look after their employees while respecting the gravity of the situation.
As the appeal process unfolds, Daga’s future in football remains uncertain. Bolstad assured that the verdict is not final, indicating that Daga will be treated like everyone else until the appeal is resolved.
The implications of this case extend beyond Daga himself, affecting his club and the broader football community. The seriousness of the allegations and the subsequent ruling highlight ongoing discussions about consent and accountability in sports.
As this situation develops, the focus will be on the appeal process and how it may impact Daga’s career and the reputation of Molde FK.