FIFA World Cup 2023: The Women’s World Cup quarterfinals were within reach for England on Monday, but only after they managed to play the entirety of extra time with just 10 players. To advance, they had to survive a tense penalty shootout against Nigeria. In an intense round-of-16 match against Nigeria on Monday, the 21-year-old attacker Lauren James was given a red card for aggressive behaviour late in regular time, leaving England in a 10-on-11 situation for more than half an hour until the game finished 0-0 after extra time.
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Lauren James handed red-card
After a reckless stamp on Michelle Alozie in the 87th minute, England player Lauren James, the team’s two-goal hero in the 6-1 victory against China, was sent off for aggressive behaviour. As a result, the team was down one player heading into extra time.
In the 84th minute, James lost control of the ball during a struggle with defender Michelle Alozie, which led to the unprecedented dismissal. James lost her balance and landed on top of Alozie. She then got to her feet and used the studs of her right boot to tread on the Nigerian defender.
For the foot-stomping incident, referee Melissa Borjas promptly issued James a yellow card. However, the VAR reviewed the incident when slow-motion replays were broadcast on stadium screens. The red card replaced the yellow one. If England keeps winning, it will mean James will miss the quarterfinals and probably more.
Watch FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 video here
James’ importance in the team is very important. She scored five goals against China, becoming the youngest player in FIFA Women’s World Cup history to do so. During the match against Nigeria, she collected a brace and a hat-trick of assists. However, after receiving a red card in the semifinal match against Nigeria, the 21-year-old turned became a villain in many people’s views.
In front of over 50,000 fans in Brisbane, Nigeria had the better opportunities, but the European Champions held out for a 0-0 after 120 minutes and won the shootout 4-2 in the end.
The Lionesses will play without James on Saturday in their attempt to win the World Cup in addition to their European championship when they compete against Colombia or Jamaica for a spot in the semifinals.
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