Nigerian midfielder Daniel Daga has been unanimously acquitted by the Frostating Court of Appeal in Norway, bringing a major legal battle to a positive conclusion for the young footballer, Trybal News reports.
Molde FK confirmed the development in an official statement on Thursday, acknowledging the court’s decision while noting that the judgment is not yet legally final.
Daniel Daga has been unanimously acquitted in the criminal case that has been heard by the Frostating Court of Appeal. Molde FK takes note of the verdict, even though the verdict is not yet final.”
Daga had been accused of rape following an incident that allegedly took place in April 2025. Earlier this year, a district court found him guilty and sentenced him to six months’ imprisonment. The Nigerian midfielder consistently denied the allegation, maintaining that the sexual encounter was consensual, and subsequently appealed the verdict.
The Frostating Court of Appeal has now unanimously acquitted the 19-year-old, overturning the previous conviction. Although the ruling is not yet legally final, it represents a significant development in the case and clears the way for Daga to resume focusing on his football career.
Daga joined Molde FK in February 2025 after emerging as one of Nigeria’s brightest young talents. A product of Carabana FC, he made his breakthrough in Nigerian football before earning widespread recognition with the Flying Eagles at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup. His energetic displays, ball-winning ability and composure in midfield attracted interest from several European clubs before Molde secured his signature.
Regarded as one of Nigeria’s most promising defensive midfielders, Daga’s progress was interrupted by the legal proceedings following his move to Norway. The unanimous acquittal by the Court of Appeal marks a major turning point as he looks to rebuild his career and return his focus to football.
