Overview of the Case
On March 11, 2026, Daniel Daga, a player for Molde FK, was sentenced to six months in prison by the Nordmøre og Romsdal District Court for committing a sexual act without consent. This ruling has significant implications for Daga’s career and personal life.
Details of the Verdict
The court’s decision also included an order for Daga to pay NOK 10,000 in legal costs, which is approximately 1.45 million Nigerian currency. Following the verdict, Daga’s lawyer confirmed that he intends to appeal the ruling, asserting his client’s belief in his innocence and that the encounter occurred with consent.
Impact on Daga’s Career
Daga joined Molde FK in January 2025 and has made 17 appearances for the club, scoring three goals. However, in light of the recent ruling, Molde FK announced that he will not be part of the match squad until further notice. This decision reflects the seriousness of the matter and the club’s responsibility towards its players.
Statements from Involved Parties
Astrid Bolstad, Daga’s lawyer, expressed that he is “terribly sorry that the verdict was the way it was” and emphasized his belief in Daga’s innocence. Meanwhile, Molde FK released a statement acknowledging the demanding nature of the situation for all involved, highlighting their commitment to handling the matter responsibly.
Daga has built a reputation on the international stage, having represented Nigeria’s U20 team at the 2023 and 2025 FIFA U20 World Cups. His recent legal troubles come as a significant setback in his burgeoning career.
Current State of Affairs
As it stands, Daga is facing a six-month prison sentence, with the possibility of an appeal pending. The verdict is not final, and he will be treated like everyone else until the appeal process is concluded.
The developments surrounding Daniel Daga’s case highlight the complexities of legal issues in sports and the responsibilities of organizations like Molde FK in addressing such serious allegations. The outcome of the appeal may further influence Daga’s future in football.