England forward Lauren James has been banned from playing in two matches by FIFA for her red card in the Women’s World Cup game with Nigeria.
James, 21, was sent off for stamping on Michelle Alozie’s back in the last-16 tie, which England won on penalties.
The dismissal came with an automatic one-game ban, which Fifa has increased, meaning she will miss the semi-final if England get there.
The Lionesses face Colombia in the quarter-finals on Saturday (11:30 BST).
James is England’s top scorer in the tournament, scoring three goals and assisting three more in the group stages.
FIFA rules state that players are automatically banned for one game, meaning James misses England’s quarterfinal against Colombia on Saturday.
Should England get there, she will also miss the semi-final after FIFA extended the suspension.
James apologised on social media after Alozie had herself had responded to the incident, saying she had ‘all respect for Lauren James’.
The Chelsea forward replied: “All my love and respect to you. I am sorry for what happened. 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.”
