Why Lauren James only got a two match ban despite foul on Alozie

Lauren James has been one of the shining lights of the ongoing Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

She, alongside the likes of Japan's Hinata Miyazawa and Colombia's Linda Caicedo, set the group stage alight and looked set to carry the same form to the knockout stage.

However, for James, a split-second decision in anger saw her stamp on Michelle Alozie during the round of 16 against Nigeria and after a review, she was sent off.

Luckily for James, her teammates held on to eliminate the Super Falcons on post-match penalties and remain on course for a first-ever World Cup title.

It was thought the Chelsea star's tournament was over. A straight red card - especially for violent conduct - carries a three-match ban more often than not.

James vs. Abiodun's red cards
A quick introspection on the first straight red card issued in the World Cup saw Nigeria's Deborah Abiodun suspended for three games for dangerous foul play on Canada's Ashley Lawrence.

So bad was the challenge by the Super Falcons star that when you watch the replay, one fails to comprehend how Lawrence walked out of it unscathed.

Abiodun's ban meant she did not play any other match again Down Under, which was thought would be the case for James. A three-match ban would have kept her out of the finals, had Sarina Wiegman's reached there.

However, as reported by the BBC, there was a silver lining for the Chelsea winger after FIFA decided to hand her a two-match ban.

The 21-year-old will now only be suspended for the quarter-final clash against Colombia and the next international fixture after that - possibly the semi-final if her team advances.

Which was the worst tackle? ????

???? Deborah Abiodun vs Ashley Lawrence

????Lauren James vs Michelle Alozie #FIFAWWC #ENG #NGA #FIFAWWCwithMOLAT pic.twitter.com/ZI2rnHtPjj

— Omowunmi of Molatsportgist (@chubbyMO_) August 10, 2023