For her tackle on Michelle Alozie, Lauren James, the sister of well-known Chelsea defender Reece James, was given the red card
England star Lauren James publicly expressed her regret and apologised for a controversial incident during the Lionesses' intense last-16 World Cup clash against Nigeria, Soccernet.ng reports.
The midfielder was sent off in the 70th minute for stamping on Alozie, which resulted in her removal from the game after her original yellow card was overturned and replaced with a red card.
Due to her early departure, the Lionesses were forced to play the final 50 minutes of the high-stakes game with only ten players.
Despite the incident, England managed to hold their ground and secured a hard-fought victory, winning 4-2 on penalties after the match ended goalless following extra time.
While her fellow England teammates offered support and understanding, other opinions emerged, suggesting James' actions could have jeopardized the team's victory.
Michelle Alozie encouraged understanding, tweeting: “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.”
Lauren, who is a sister to Chelsea defender, Reece James, in response to a tweet from Alozie addressing the situation, expressed her respect for the US-based player and apologised.
“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.” she tweeted.
All my love and respect to you. I am sorry for what happened.
Also, for our England fans and my team-mates, playing with and for you is my greatest honour and I promise to learn from my experience. https://t.co/Vi4hBIewiS
— Lauren James (@laurenjamess22) August 8, 2023
The consequences of the incident include an automatic one-match ban for James, which could potentially be extended to three games.
FIFA’s disciplinary committee will make the final decision, a ruling that might impact James' availability for the remainder of the tournament, even if the Lionesses reach the final for the first time in their history.
She’s a slow learner if she still doesnt know that you DO NOT deliberately stand on an opponent,
You should have added that the youngster frustrated you so badly that you lost it.
You weren’t good enough to go pass her! Your hype failed you and you resorted to assault and self-defacement!
May your lesson could have been learned better had it been England lost the match!
So pity.