England emerged victorious in a match against Nigeria at the Women’s World Cup, even after star player Lauren James received a red card. The game was decided through penalty kicks, with England prevailing and advancing to the quarterfinals.
The round of 16 match ended in a 0-0 draw after regulation and extra time, giving Nigeria an opportunity to secure their first-ever knockout win at the Women’s World Cup.
However, England, the reigning European champion, won the penalty shootout 4-2, with only one failed attempt.
England became the favorite to win the title after the defending champion, the U.S. team, was eliminated in a penalty shootout loss to Sweden. Nevertheless, England struggled to create scoring opportunities against Nigeria’s solid defense.
Things worsened for England when star forward Lauren James was red-carded five minutes before the end of regulation time. The red card was given after a video assistant referee (VAR) review, as James stomped on a Nigeria defender, committing violent conduct. Initially, James received a yellow card, but it was upgraded to a red card after several minutes of delay.
The situation drew comparisons with David Beckham’s infamous red card for kicking out at Argentina’s Diego Simeone in the 1998 World Cup. James will now miss at least one game, and potentially the rest of the tournament.
Following James’ expulsion, England had to quickly adjust their formation for the remaining 10-on-11 scenario, introducing Chloe Kelly as a lone striker.
Nigeria had a chance eight minutes into stoppage time, but Michelle Alozie failed to control a left-foot shot from seven yards, resulting in a wide miss.
In the dying minutes of extra time, veteran forward Asisat Oshoala forced England goalkeeper Mary Earps to make a save with a powerful left-foot shot.
In the quarterfinals, England will face either Colombia or Jamaica in Sydney next Saturday.
