A judicial ruling in Norway has resulted in a six-month prison sentence for Molde FK midfielder Daniel Daga, after the 19-year-old was found guilty of a non-consensual sexual act. The decision, delivered on Tuesday afternoon, aligns with the sentencing recommendations put forward by the prosecution. In addition to the term of incarceration, the Nigerian youth international has been directed to cover legal expenditures totaling 10,000 Norwegian kroner, as detailed in reports from TV 2 Norway.
The legal team representing the teenage athlete has expressed profound dissatisfaction with the court’s conclusion, emphasizing that the player continues to assert his innocence regarding the allegations. Defense attorney Astrid Bolstad highlighted Daga’s emotional state following the announcement and confirmed that the decision would be contested.
“He is very upset about the verdict. He believes he is innocent and that everything happened with consent,” Bolstad told TV 2.
Pending the outcome of an appeal, the defense maintains that the judgment lacks full legal finality. Bolstad further argued for the preservation of her client’s rights during the continuing process, noting that the midfielder had remained engaged in team training activities leading up to the trial.
“The verdict is not legally binding yet. He should be treated like anyone else until the case is finalised,” Bolstad said.
In response to the verdict, Molde FK issued a formal communication addressing the gravity of the situation and the club’s administrative stance. The Eliteserien side confirmed that Daga would be excluded from matchday selections indefinitely, expanding upon a suspension from competitive play that originally began in late 2025 as the investigation progressed.
“This is a very difficult case for everyone involved. Molde Football Club has a responsibility as an employer to take care of 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 said. “In light of the situation and the ongoing legal process, the club has decided that the player will not be part of the matchday squad until further notice.”
The case has drawn significant attention both in Norway and Nigeria, given Daga’s reputation as one of West Africa’s most promising football talents. As the appeals process begins, the player’s professional future remains stalled, with the club prioritizing legal compliance and the sensitivities of all parties impacted by the proceedings.
About the Author
