Former Flying Eagles of Nigeria midfielder Daniel Daga has been cleared of sexual assault by Norway’s Frostating Court of Appeal, bringing an end to a legal battle that kept him out of action for nearly 11 months.
The 19‑year‑old is expected to resume his career with Molde FK after the club confirmed he is available for selection, pending the final written judgement.
Molde FK’s response to the acquittal
In a statement released on Thursday, Molde said it had received the Court of Appeal’s ruling and acknowledged the difficult period experienced by everyone involved.
“We have today received information about the Court of Appeal’s ruling. This has been a demanding period for everyone involved, and we want to approach it with respect and consideration for everyone who has been affected,” said CEO Vegard Storvik on the club’s official website.
Daga had previously 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 court also ordered him to pay NOK 10,000 in legal costs.
That verdict has now been overturned after the Court of Appeal acquitted the Nigerian midfielder of the charge.
Molde welcomed the decision and confirmed the teenager would be reintegrated into the squad.
“The club recognises that this has been a serious and stressful matter for everyone affected,” the statement continued. “Since the indictment was filed, Molde FK has made ongoing assessments based on the situation and the club’s responsibility as an employer. Now that the Court of Appeal’s verdict is in and Daniel Daga has been acquitted, we as an employer consider that Daniel will be available to play for Molde FK in the future.”