England advances at World Cup despite Lauren James' red card in Round of 16 versus Nigeria
England is back in the quarterfinals of the World Cup for the fifth consecutive time after defeating Nigeria in a penalty shootout. But, it didn't come without drama.
A late red card by England forward Lauren James meant England had to play the extra time period outnumbered. Nigeria had a whopping 20 shots for the game but only two landed on target. A penalty shootout went in England's favor and they 4-2 after Chloe Kelly's smashing penalty.
Here's everything you need to know about the wild Round of 16 matchup between England and Nigeria, including why Lauren James was shown a red card and where each team goes from here.
Why did Lauren James get a red card?
With the score still tied at 0-0, English forward Lauren James stomped on Nigerian defender Michelle Alozie. Alozie was laying on the ground when James pushed off of her and sent her boot into Alozie's back. James was immediately given a yellow card, but after VAR assistance, James was shown a red card and disqualified from the match.
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James is automatically suspended for the quarterfinals but could be disqualified for more matches pending the review of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee. Since James showed clear intent, it wouldn't be a surprise if she's suspended the rest of the tournament.
If that's the case, it would be a huge blow for England. James had three goals and three assists through four appearances.
How did England come out on top against Nigeria?
England led the possession stats with 57% and shots on target with four, but Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie had eight saves to keep Nigeria alive. There were no goals to show after 120 minutes of play, so penalties ensued for a spot in the quarterfinals.
Both sides missed their first two penalty kicks, but England made its next four to advance as Nigeria made just two.
Forward Chloe Kelly smashed in the penalty to leave no doubt.
Who does England play next?
England will play the winner of Columbia-Jamaica on August 12 at 6:30 a.m. ET.
What's next for Nigeria?
Much of the conversations surrounding Nigeria will be focused on whether or not American manager Randy Waldrum returns.
Nigeria overcame an ongoing pay scandal to reach its second consecutive World Cup Round of 16. Waldrum, who also coaches the University of Pittsburgh women's soccer team, led Nigeria through one of the toughest groups of the tournament – Nigeria finished above reigning Olympic gold medalists Canada to advance.
However, Waldrum shed light on the Nigerian wage scandal, putting his relationship with the Nigerian Football Federation in jeopardy. The NFF called him an "incompetent loudmouth," but his success will be difficult to replace.
