Lauren James receives a two-game suspension; she is available for the WWC championship game. FIFA has suspended England’s Lauren James for two matches due to the red card she received against Nigeria.
If England defeats Colombia on Saturday, James will miss the semifinal against Australia or France due to the duration of his suspension. However, the two-match suspension will allow her to participate in the final or third-place playoff if the Lionesses reach the last four.
In the 87th minute of England’s match against Nigeria in the round of 16, James was shown a red card for trampling on Michelle Alozie’s back. England ultimately prevailed 4-2 on penalties but had to manage extra time with only 10 players.
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She could have received a three-match suspension, which would have ended her World Cup run. Still, the FIFA disciplinary committee deemed the infraction deserving of a two-match suspension, the lower end of the spectrum for severe foul play.
Since then, the 21-year-old has issued a public apology by posting on Instagram: “All my love and reverence to [Michelle Alozie]. I apologize for what occurred.
Also, playing with and for our England fans and teammates is my most incredible honor, and I vow to learn from my experience.
James made her World Cup debut with England against Denmark and scored the game-winning goal. England defeated China by a score of 6-1, with James netting twice and contributing three assists.
Then came the Nigeria match, in which she had a frustrating performance and was shown a red card for a late foul on Alozie.
Since then, the England team has coalesced around her.
Thursday, Bethany England said, “She’s doing well.” She was dissatisfied with the events of the day. It occurred in a split-second emotional instant. We circumvented her. It’s excellent that she acknowledged this and issued an apology.”
