Lauren James Apologizes For World Cup Red Card

By: Prudence Okonna

England star Lauren James has publicly apologised for standing on her opponent during the Lionesses’ last-16 World Cup win over Nigeria and vowed to learn from the experience.

The 21-year-old was sent off for standing on the back of Nigeria defender Michelle Alozie with three minutes of normal time remaining in Brisbane.

England survived the dismissal to advance to the quarter-finals, winning 4-2 on penalties after the game finished goalless following extra time.

In response to a tweet from Alozie, James posted: “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.”

The incident resulted in an automatic one-match ban for James that could be extended to three games.

Her World Cup fate will now be decided by FIFA’s disciplinary committee – a decision which could see her miss the rest of the tournament even if the Lionesses reach a first-ever final.