Lauren James’ World Cup dream is still alive after the forward was given a two-game ban for stepping on Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie.
After receiving a red card in the round of 16, there were worries that England’s leading scorer would be forced to withdraw from the competition.
James was given a two-game suspension, but FIFA’s disciplinary panel determined that his actions were classified as “serious foul play” rather than aggressive behavior.
A three-game suspension is given automatically for violent behavior offenses.
If England advances to that stage of the competition, James, who has three goals in four games, would be qualified to play in either the final or third/fourth place play-off.
An official FIFA statement read: “The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has imposed a two-match suspension on England’s player Lauren James following a violation of article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code at the FIFA Women’s World Cup match England vs Nigeria.
“The suspension will be served for the FIFA Women’s World Cup quarter-final and the next international fixture following that.”
James issued an apology via the FA for her actions, which resulted in her sending off in the 87th minute of England’s win over Nigeria.
“Lauren is really sorry for her actions which led to the red card and is full of remorse,’ the FA said. ‘It is wholly out of character for her.
“We will be supporting Lauren throughout and will be putting forward representation on her behalf. We fully respect FIFA’s disciplinary process and will not be making any further comment until after any decision has been made.”
