Nigeria midfielder Daniel Daga sentenced to six months in prison in Norway over sexual assault case

Nigeria and Molde FK midfielder Daniel Daga has been handed a six-month prison sentence by a Norwegian court after being found guilty of committing a sexual act without consent.

The 18-year-old has appealed the ruling through his lawyer, meaning the verdict is not yet final and the case will continue through the legal system.

Daga, considered one of Nigeria’s most promising young midfielders in Europe, was initially charged with sexual assault last year. In response, he was suspended from both training and matchday activities pending the outcome of the proceedings.

Molde FK confirmed that Daga will remain absent from the matchday squad until the legal matters are resolved.

Speaking on the case, Daga’s attorney, Astrid Bolstad, stated that while her client acknowledges the sexual encounter took place, he maintains that it was consensual and denies committing a criminal act. Bolstad also noted that there were no allegations of violence or threats connected to the incident.

Daga joined Molde ahead of the 2025 season and quickly established himself in midfield, making 17 appearances across all competitions during his debut campaign in Norway.