By A 19-year-old Nigeria U-20 international, Daniel Daga, has been convicted by a court in Norway of committing a sexual act without consent, according to reports by Norwegian broadcaster TV 2.
The verdict was delivered on Tuesday by the Romsdal District Court, which sentenced the midfielder to six months in prison and ordered him to pay NOK 10,000 in legal costs.
Daga, who plays for Molde FK, has denied the allegation and announced plans to appeal the judgment through his legal representatives.
“He is terribly sorry that the verdict was the way it was. He believes he is innocent and that everything happened with consent,” the player’s lawyer, Astrid Bolstad, told TV 2.
In a statement released by Molde on Tuesday, the club said it had taken note of the court’s ruling but confirmed that the player had already filed an appeal against the decision.
“Molde Football Club is familiar with the verdict that has been published today on the mailing lists of the Romsdal District Court.
“Through his defence counsel, the player has announced an appeal against the judgment. The case is therefore not legally binding and will be further processed in the legal system,” the statement read.
The club added that the case was “very demanding for everyone involved,” noting that while it respects the seriousness of the matter, it also has a responsibility as an employer to support its staff.
Molde further stated that Daniel will be excluded from the match squad until further notice.
“In light of the situation and the ongoing legal process, the club has decided that the player will not be part of the match squad until further notice.”
The club also said it would not comment further on the matter while the legal proceedings continue.
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