Daga reveals the story behind his heartfelt reaction to scoring

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Nigerian midfielder Daniel Daga has spoken about the raw emotion behind his goal celebration during Molde’s 4-2 victory over KFUM Oslo in the Norwegian Eliteserien on Sunday, describing the moment as one of the most significant of his career after a prolonged and deeply difficult absence from football, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

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Daga, 19, broke down in tears after scoring Molde’s equaliser in the 40th minute, dropping to the turf and covering his face with his jersey in a moment that visibly moved players, officials and supporters alike.

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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,” Daga said as quoted by TV2.

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The goal came in his second start since being reinstated to Molde’s squad following his acquittal earlier this month by Norway’s Frostating Court of Appeal, which overturned a March conviction for a sexual offence.

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Molde had suspended the midfielder indefinitely following the initial verdict but moved quickly to restore him to the squad once the appeal court cleared his name.

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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,” the club said in a statement.

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On the pitch, Daga reacted quickest to fire home a rebound after a teammate’s effort struck the crossbar, hauling Molde level after they had fallen behind inside the opening minute.

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Emil Breivik then put Molde ahead before KFUM equalised, with Martin Linnes and Samukele Kabini sealing the win in stoppage time.

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The former Flying Eagles midfielder joined Molde ahead of the 2025 season and has now made 14 appearances for the Norwegian club, scoring three goals.

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