Lauren James apologises for Women’s World Cup red card
England’s star player Lauren James has apologised after she was shown a red card during England’s game against Nigeria in the last-16.
The 21-year-old was sent off following a VAR review for standing on Michelle Alozie’s back in a moment of madness that’s been compared to David Beckham’s red card in the 1998 World Cup.
England had been playing a very frustrating game and were struggling to keep up with the pace and physicality of Nigeria when James was sent off. Despite being down to 10 players, the Lionesses were able to hold Nigeria to a 0-0 draw for 120 minutes and eventually won on penalties.
England are now through to the last-8 where they will face Colombia – a game James will miss. It’s not yet known if she’ll be suspended for more games due to the red card, a Fifa review of the incident is underway. She potentially faces being out for the rest of the tournament.
“All my love and respect to you. I am sorry for what happened,” she said on social media to Alozie.
“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.”
“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.”
Lauren James
James had been one of the stars of the England squad, with three goals and three assists so far.
Nigeria’s Alozie had posted: “We are playing on the world’s stage.
“This game is one of passion, insurmountable emotions, and moments. All respect for Lauren James.”
Following England’s win, lioness boss Sarina Wiegman said: “She is inexperienced on this stage and in a split-second lost her emotions. It isn’t something she did on purpose. She apologised and felt really bad.
“She would never want to hurt someone. She is the sweetest person I know.”