FIFA Women’s World Cup: England star Lauren James handed two-match ban for stamping on Alozie

Following her ban, James could still play in the final of the World Cup if England qualify

FIFA have handed England attacker Lauren James a two-match ban for stamping on Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie when both teams met in the round of 16 of the World Cup on Monday, Soccernet reports.

European champions England defeated Nigeria on penalties when both teams met in the round of 16 of the World Cup on Monday. The Super Falcons were minnows going into the game, but they presented a strong fight against England.

Nigeria made it difficult for England to score, and the pressure eventually kicked in. Then in the 86th minute, after a foul on Alozie, England’s star player James stamped on the Super Falcons defender. The Chelsea attacker was initially handed a yellow card, but it was later upgraded to a yellow after a VAR review.

James’ action was further reviewed after the game, and according to Sky Sports, she has been handed a two-game ban by FIFA.

This means that she will miss England’s quarterfinal game against Colombia and their semifinal fixture if they qualify. However, the 21-year-old attacker will be able to play in the final if England manage to qualify.

Why was Abiodun handed a three-match ban and James a two-match ban?

Earlier, Super Falcons midfielder Deborah Abiodun was given a three-match ban after a violent tackle in Nigeria’s first game against Canada.

Both cases are different, as Abiodun was given a three-match ban for foul play that endangered an opponent. She twisted another player’s ankle with her tackle, while James was suspended for two games because of violent conduct. Her actions brought no harm whatsoever to Alozie.