'All respect for Lauren James' - Nigeria full back shares view on Lionesses red card

Super Falcons star, Michelle Alozie, has called for England star Lauren James to be shown 'respect' after she was sent off for stepping on her back during their Round of 16 clash at the 2023 Women's World Cup.

The display struck in the 87th minute of yesterday's last-16 tie in Brisbane when striker James, 21, stamped on the back of fallen defender Michelle Alozie.  Although, England did eventually make it through on penalties after a 0-0 draw. 

James got a yellow card, which became red after a review. She has been served a three-game ban,  meaning she would miss the rest of the tournament.

26-year-old Alozie tweeted today that she understood why James acted as she did during the pressured environment of a World Cup knockout game.

She said: 'Abeg, rest. We are playing on the world's stage. This game is one of passion, insurmountable emotions, and moments. All respect for Lauren James.'

Alozie also posted a follow-up message saying it was 'still a red though' – and then a picture of her smiling as James stood on her back, captioning it 'life.'

 Speaking after England won the penalty shoot-out 4-2, having clung on through extra time with 10 players, Alozie said there were 'no hard feelings.'

'It was good for us. James is a really good player and nullifying her was really big for us,' she said.

'We didn't want her to move freely and get those shots off that she usually does. It was good for us to have her taken out of the game.

'I was a little bit surprised by her reaction to the tackle. I don't think it was really needed.

'I'm fine, my butt is fine from her stepping on it! I was kind of confused initially. I didn't understand what was going on at first. There's no hard feelings, it's just a game.'