England’s forward, Lauren James, has received a two-match ban from FIFA in response to her red card during the Women’s World Cup clash against Nigeria.
The 21-year-old player was ejected from the match for stomping on Michelle Alozie’s back during the last-16 tie, a game England eventually won in a penalty shootout.
Originally, the red card carried an automatic one-game suspension, but FIFA has extended the penalty, signifying that James will be ineligible for the semi-final if England advances.
As England’s national team, the Lionesses, prepares to face Colombia in the quarter-finals this Saturday at 11:30 BST, James’ absence from the match looms as a challenge.
Lauren James has notably been England’s leading scorer throughout the tournament, securing three goals and contributing to three assists during the group stage matches.
