Daniel Daga, an 18-year-old Nigerian midfielder playing for Molde FK, has pleaded not guilty to sexual assault charges brought against him by Norwegian prosecutors, insisting that the sexual encounter in question was consensual.
The young footballer’s legal representative, Astrid Bolstad, confirmed to Norwegian broadcaster TV 2 that whilst her client acknowledges a sexual incident occurred, he maintains it was entirely consensual and denies any criminal wrongdoing. According to Bolstad, Daga has been deeply affected by the allegations and is eager to present his defence before the court.
“My client acknowledges that there has been a sexual incident, but maintains that it was mutually consensual. He believes that he has not done anything illegal and does not plead guilty,” Bolstad stated, as reported by TV 2.
The defence team has expressed surprise at the decision to proceed with charges following the investigation, particularly noting the absence of allegations involving violence or threats. Bolstad emphasised that Daga is looking forward to clearing his name through the judicial process, though she declined to provide further commentary beyond the official statement.
Molde FK issued a statement on Friday evening confirming that Daga has been charged with “a sexual act without consent” and announced the player’s immediate withdrawal from training and match activities for the foreseeable future. The Eliteserien club stated that Daga has cooperated fully with police investigators throughout the inquiry, participating in all requested interviews.
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The club’s chairman, Odd Ivar Moen, addressed the gravity of the situation in a public statement, acknowledging the challenging nature of such cases for all parties involved. “We have previously experienced how demanding this type of case is for those involved, for the club and for everyone around us. This is a matter of a serious nature, and we view the charge that has been brought with great seriousness,” Moen said.
According to case details cited by TV 2, the matter is scheduled for hearing at Nordmøre and Romsdal district court in March. Daga has travelled to Nigeria but will return to Norway ahead of the court proceedings.
The complainant’s legal counsel, Anette Western Torgersen, acknowledged the significant burden the case has placed on her client but declined to offer further comment on the matter, as reported by TV 2.
Daga joined Molde ahead of the 2025 season and featured in 17 matches for the club during the campaign. The Norwegian side has confirmed it has been in contact with the complainant’s legal representative and intends to facilitate a fair legal process whilst acting respectfully towards all parties involved.
