Nigerian midfielder Daniel Daga marked his Europa Conference League debut with a decisive moment that propelled Molde into the Round of 16 of the competition.
In a dramatic showdown against Shamrock Rovers, the 18-year-old former NPFL star held his nerve in the penalty shootout, securing his team’s progression in the competition, Footballrover reports.
Decisive debut: Daniel Daga keeps cool under pressure
Molde faced Shamrock Rovers in the second leg of the qualification round, carrying a 1-0 first-leg deficit.
However, Magnus Wolff Eikrem quickly erased that advantage with a goal in the 10th minute, levelling the aggregate score.
The Norwegian side then had to endure a tough challenge after Isak Amundsen’s red card left them with ten men for the entire extra-time period.
With the game locked in a stalemate after 120 minutes, the match headed to penalties.
Daniel Daga, who was introduced in the 96th minute to replace Markus André Kaasa, stepped up when it mattered most.
He slotted home Molde’s fourth penalty with a precise right-footed strike to the centre of the net, contributing to a flawless 5-4 shootout victory.
Molde hold firm despite setbacks
Despite being a man down, Molde showed resilience, shutting down Shamrock Rovers’ attacking threats.
The Irish side will rue missed opportunities to restore their lead, but Molde’s disciplined defence and clinical finishing in the shootout proved decisive.
Daga’s composed penalty capped off a memorable and emotional Europa Conference League debut, highlighting his potential on the big stage.
With Molde advancing to the Round of 16, the young Nigerian has taken a significant step in his European football journey.
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