.mFlying Eagles of Nigeria midfielder Daniel Daga has been acquitted of sexual assault by Norway’s Frostating Court of Appeal.
The 19-year-old has been sidelined from football activities since legal proceedings intensified, impacting his career. His club, Molde FK, confirmed in an official statement on Thursday that Daga is now available for selection again while the involved parties await the final, legally binding judgement.
CEO Vegard Storvik shared on the club’s website that the period has been demanding for everyone involved, and emphasized the club’s desire to approach the situation with respect and consideration for all affected individuals.
Daniel Daga er enstemmig frifunnet i straffesaken som har vært behandlet av Frostating lagmannsrett, selv om dommen foreløpig ikke er rettskraftig.https://t.co/5Ey6h4wQG7
— Molde Fotballklubb (@Molde_FK) July 2, 2026
Daga had previously been sentenced to six months in prison by the Nordmøre og Romsdal District Court after being found guilty of a sexual act without consent.
That lower court ruling had also ordered the player to pay NOK 10,000 in legal costs. However, the unanimous decision by the Court of Appeal has overturned that conviction, completely clearing the Nigerian midfielder of the criminal charge.
The club acknowledged the serious and stressful nature of the matter for everyone involved. The management further explained that since the indictment was first filed, ongoing assessments were made based on the situation and the club’s responsibility as an employer.
With the Court of Appeal delivering an acquittal, the employer now considers the player available to feature for Molde FK going forward
