Daga cleared of sexual assault charge by Norwegian court

By Charles Maduka

Former Flying Eagles midfielder Daniel Daga has been cleared of sexual assault charges by a Norwegian Court of Appeal, allowing him to resume his football career with Molde FK.

The 19-year-old was sentenced to six months in prison in March 2026 after being found guilty of committing a sexual act without consent. The case stemmed from an incident that allegedly occurred in April 2025, while he was formally charged in December 2025.

Following the conviction, Molde FK suspended Daga indefinitely from first-team activities. However, the appeal court has now overturned the verdict, paving the way for his return to action.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Norwegian club confirmed the court’s decision but noted that the ruling is not yet legally binding.

“Daniel Daga is unanimously acquitted in the criminal case that has been dealt with by the Frostating Court of Appeal. Molde FK takes note of the verdict, although the judgment is not yet legally binding,” the club said.

“The club recognises that this has been a serious and burdensome case for everyone who has been affected.”

“Since the indictment was filed, Molde FK has made ongoing assessments based on the situation and the club’s responsibilities as an employer. Now that the Court of Appeal’s judgment has been delivered and Daniel Daga has been acquitted, we consider the employment situation to be clarified, and Daniel will be available for selection for Molde FK going forward.”

Daga’s lawyer, Astrid Bolstad, had maintained the player’s innocence following his conviction in March and successfully challenged the ruling at the Court of Appeal.

The Nigerian midfielder, who featured for the Flying Eagles at the U-20 level, joined Molde at the beginning of the 2025 season. He has made 15 appearances for the Norwegian side and scored three goals.

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