Daga opens up on emotional goal celebration

Nigerian midfielder Daniel Daga experienced a profoundly emotional moment on Sunday, scoring for Molde FK in their 4-2 Norwegian Eliteserien win against KFUM Oslo. The 19-year-old broke down in tears after netting Molde's equalizer in the 40th minute, a powerful display of emotion that visibly moved those present.

"It’s been a long time since I played. It was a big moment for me. I’m grateful to God; it was a very emotional moment for me," Daga shared, describing the goal as one of the most significant of his career. The goal came in his second start since Molde reinstated him to the squad following his acquittal by Norway’s Frostating Court of Appeal earlier this month. The court overturned a March conviction for a sexual offense, leading to his indefinite suspension by the club.

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It’s been a long time since I played. It was a big moment for me. I’m grateful to God; it was a very emotional moment for me.

Molde had suspended the midfielder following the initial verdict but quickly restored him to the team after the appeal court cleared his name. The club stated, "Daniel Daga is unanimously acquitted in the criminal case that has been dealt with by the Frostating Court of Appeal. Now that the Court of Appeal’s judgment has been delivered and Daniel Daga has been acquitted, we consider the employment situation to be clarified, and Daniel will be available for selection for Molde FK going forward."

On the field, Daga reacted swiftly to a rebound, scoring the goal that leveled the match after Molde had conceded an early lead. Emil Breivik then put Molde ahead, and despite a subsequent equalizer from KFUM, goals from Martin Linnes and Samukele Kabini in stoppage time secured the victory. Daga, who joined Molde before the 2025 season, has now made 14 appearances and scored three goals for the Norwegian club.

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Daniel Daga is unanimously acquitted in the criminal case that has been dealt with by the Frostating Court of Appeal. Now that the Court of Appeal’s judgment has been delivered and Daniel Daga has been acquitted, we consider the employment situation to be clarified, and Daniel will be available for selection for Molde FK going forward.