Daniel Daga Cleared of Sexual Assault Charges, Set for Molde Return After 11-Month Absence

Flying Eagles midfielder Daniel Daga has been acquitted of sexual assault charges by Norway's Frostating Court of Appeal, bringing an end to a legal battle that sidelined him from football for nearly a year.

The 19-year-old has been out of action for 11 months while the case progressed through the Norwegian legal system.

Following the appeal court's decision, Norwegian club Molde FK confirmed in a statement on Thursday that Daga is now available for selection again, although the club noted it is still awaiting the final judgment in the case.

Daga had earlier been convicted by the Romsdal District Court, which sentenced him to six months in prison after finding him guilty of sexually assaulting a woman. The lower court also ordered the Nigerian youngster to pay NOK 10,000 in legal costs.

However, the Court of Appeal overturned that verdict, clearing the midfielder of the allegations and paving the way for his return to competitive football.

Despite the lengthy absence, Daga remains one of Nigeria's promising young talents. He represented the Flying Eagles at both the 2023 and 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cups, where he earned praise for his composure and work rate in midfield.

The acquittal is expected to allow the teenager to fully focus on rebuilding his career and competing for a regular place in Molde's first team after an extended spell on the sidelines.

Opinion

For any young footballer, spending almost a year away from the game can significantly affect development and momentum. With the appeal court overturning the previous conviction, Daga now has an opportunity to concentrate on football again. His immediate challenge will be regaining match fitness, rebuilding confidence, and proving that he can still fulfil the potential that made him one of Nigeria's brightest youth prospects. How he responds on the pitch in the coming months could define the next phase of his career.