England’s Lauren James To Serve Two-Game Ban at World Cup

Lauren James, who had made a big name for herself at the Women’s World Cup, has been dealt a two-match ban by FIFA because of her stomping of Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie. England fans, and the team itself, waited for what FIFA would deem an appropriate punishment. Now they know they’ll have to deal with at least Colombia without her and possibly a semi-final match.

While we’re at it, check out our Women’s World Cup odds.

Lauren James Served Two-Game Ban, Misses England vs Colombia

In the dying minutes of regulation time between England and Nigeria in the Round of 16, Lauren James and Michelle Alozie got tangled up and took a tumble. As the England midfielder rose, she inexplicably took the opportunity to walk on her Nigerian opponent who was still on the ground.

It was a flabbergasting moment given the circumstances. A World Cup knockout stage match tied 0-0 in the 87^th minute. What’s more, James had earned plaudits for her performances earlier in the tournament.

England survived the match despite playing down a woman, as they eventually edged Nigeria in a penalty shootout.

Lauren James is statistically the side’s best offensive weapon, having netter thrice already in the tournament. It will be up to Georgia Stanway, Rachel Daly and the like pick up the torch, keep calm, and carry on.