The Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) has handed a two-match ban to England forward Lauren James following their Round of 16 clash with Nigeria in Brisbane on Monday.
The Super Falcons lost 4-2 on penalties to the Lionesses but the England player stole the headlines for her conduct after she was shown a red card in the 87th minute for stamping on Michelle Alozie in the back.
Referee Melissa Borjas had initially issued a yellow card but upgraded it to a red card after VAR reviewed the incident.
The 21-year-old will therefore miss her side's quarter-final clash with Colombia on Saturday in Sydney, and also their semi-final game with France or hosts, Australia should they make it past their South American opponents.
James had apologized to Alozie on social media after the latter quelled tensions by saying 'all respect for Lauren James'.
She replied by saying," All my love and respect to you. I am sorry for what happened."
The England team also released a statement saying: “Lauren is really sorry for her actions which led to the red card and is full of remorse. It is wholly out of character for her.”
