Lionesses star Lauren James has been banned by the Federation International Football Association for two games but could return for the Women’s World Cup final after being awarded a red card for stamping on Michelle Alozie in England’s win over Nigeria, Daily Mail reports on Thursday.
James who is among the stars of the tournament and a key player of coach Sarina Weigman’s team was sent off in the last-16 clash after she stylishly stamped on her colleague during the football match.
James pressed Alozie’s back down and stamped her when the Nigerian player was lying on the ground after a challenge in the 87th minute of the game which ended in penalty play.
After consulting the video assistant referee over the foul play, James was shown a red card having initially been given a yellow. Red card offences would lead to a one-game ban, but FIFA has the capacity to extend the suspension if they see fit.
FIFA disciplinary committee exercised their right and handed out three-game bans for violent conduct but James has escaped a punishment that would have ruled her out of the rest of the tournament.