Nigeria U-20 midfielder Daniel Daga charged with sexual assault

Nigeria U-20 national team and Molde FK midfielder Daniel Daga is facing a legal battle after being formally charged with sexual assault in Norway.

​This was confirmed by his club in an official statement released Friday evening. The 18-year-old has been indefinitely suspended from all team activities, including training and competitive matches, as the legal process unfolds.

​According to the accusations, the charges stem from an incident during Daga’s debut season in Norway. While the specific details of the encounter remain private to protect the parties involved, the Nordmøre and Romsdal District Court has scheduled formal hearings for March 2026.

​Molde FK Chairman Odd Ivar Moen emphasized the gravity of the charges while acknowledging the difficulty the situation poses for all stakeholders.

”This is a serious matter, and we take the charges very seriously. These types of cases are extremely demanding for everyone involved. Our priority is to act responsibly and ensure fairness and respect for all parties.”

The club also took the step of contacting the complainant’s legal team, acknowledging the “emotional and personal burden” the case has placed on the victim.

​Despite the formal charges, Daniel Daga’s legal representation maintains his innocence. His lawyer, Astrid Bolstad, confirmed that while a sexual encounter took place, the midfielder insists it was entirely consensual. She noted that no evidence or suspicion of violence or threats was involved.

“Daga is deeply affected and expressed surprise that the investigation led to a formal prosecution. He looks forward to having the case heard in court so he can clear his name.”

The midfielder has been cooperative throughout the preliminary investigation, attending all police interrogations. Although he has since returned to Nigeria, he is legally obligated and expected to return to Norway to face the court next spring.

​He arrived at Molde ahead of the 2025 season with a burgeoning reputation as one of Africa’s most promising defensive midfielders. His debut campaign saw him feature seventeen times across all competitions, mostly as a substitute as Molde finished 10th on the 16-team Eliteserien table.

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