Izuchukwu Okosi
England forward Lauren James on Tuesday has unequivocally apologised to Nigeria right back Mitchelle Alozie for the violent conduct that led to her red card in Monday’s round of 16 game at the Lang Brisbane stadium.
England edged the contest 4-2 on penalties after 120 minutes of action which included 30 minutes of extra time.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) has suspended the Chelsea women’s star for Saturday quarterfinals game against Colombia who beat Jamaica on Tuesday.
James, whose brother Reece is one of Chelsea men’s standout players took to her Twitter handle to apologise to the Houston Dash defender and the English fans.
“All my love and respect to you. I am sorry for what happened,” she said on social media to Alozie.
“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.”
FIFA could extend her ban to more than one game – which could see her miss the rest of the tournament even if England go all the way.
Alozie, who lost one of Nigeria’s spot kicks in the shootouts, responded to James’ apology and also assureed her fans that she is alright.
“We are playing on the world’s stage.
“This game is one of passion, insurmountable emotions, and moments. All respect for Lauren James.”
On whether she had sustained an injury from the incident said: “my butt is okay.”
The 21-year-old James was one of the stars of England’s group games, with three goals and three assists to her credit.
The England international’s chances of winning the Most Valuable Player of the tournament has been effectively ruled out especially if FIFA confirms her unavailability for the Three Lionesses’ remaining games.
Izuchukwu Okosi is a Nigerian sports and entertainment journalist with two decades of experience in the media industry having begun his media journey in 2002 as an intern at Mundial Sports International (MSI) and Africa Independent Television (AIT), owners of Daar Communications Plc.
