England superstar Lauren James has been banned by FIFA after stamping Nigerian defender Michelle Alozie during their Round of 16 games.
In the last-16 tie, which England won on penalties, James was sent off for stamping on Michelle Alozie's back.
21:00 - 09.08.2023
FOOTBALL Revealed: Why Chelsea have appointed Reece James as new club captain
Most would have expected Thiago Silva to take over as captain, having served as vice captain since joining the club in 2020.
The incident caused a lot of reaction from fans on social media with many calling her action unprofessional.
The Chelsea forward has now received a two-match suspension from FIFA and will miss England’s next two games.
James out of England's next two games
James will miss the semifinal if England advance because of the automatic one-game suspension that came with the dismissal, which FIFA increased.
08:02 - 08.08.2023
My 'yansh' is fine - Michelle Alozie speaks about stamp from Lauren James
Super Falcons attacking wingback Michelle Alozie has opened up about the incident during the game against England.
According to Daily Star, she would, however, return to the team if England makes it to the final of the Women's World Cup tournament.
On Saturday, the Lionesses take on Colombia in the quarterfinals as they get one step closer to the Women's World Cup Final.
James has scored three goals and provided three assists in the group stages, making her England's leading goal scorer in the competition.
21:18 - 07.08.2023
ANALYSIS Super Falcons: Halimatu Ayinde frustrated Lauren James, but Nigeria could not benefit from her man-marking masterclass
Randy Waldrum deployed Halimatu Ayinde in a committed role to neuter the in-form Lauren James, and it worked, with the vexed England forward’s 87th-minute dismissal leaving the Three Lionesses shorthanded. Not taking advantage was disappointing for the Super Falcons.
Meanwhile, Alozie tweeted on Wednesday, saying, "Abeg, rest. We are playing on the world’s stage. This game is one of passion, insurmountable emotions, and moments. All respect for Lauren James."
Later, James publicly apologised to Alozie on social media and said she had learned from her mistake.
She said as reported by Daily Star, "All my love and respect to you. I am sorry for what happened. Also, for our England fans and my teammates, playing with and for you is my greatest honour and I promise to learn from my experience."