Despite Lauren James’ red card, England defeated Nigeria in a thrilling penalty shootout to go to the Women’s World Cup quarterfinals. England’s encounter against Nigeria in Brisbane went into extra time, making England fans nervous. Georgia Stanway missed England’s first penalty, raising tension. However, Nigeria missed their next two penalty kicks, allowing the European champions to win when Chloe Kelly brilliantly scored the clinching penalty. Read complete details about England’s advances to Women’s World Cup quarters due to penalty shootout below.
England advances to Women’s World Cup quarters due to penalty shootout
England’s Lauren James stomped on Michelle Alozie’s back in the 87th minute after losing possession. James was correctly sent out after a VAR review, leaving England with 10 players for the rest of the match and extra time. Nigeria played flawlessly throughout the contest. They counterattacked and outdueled England. Nigeria twice struck the crossbar. Ashleigh Plumptre’s powerful shot hit the wall, while Uchenna Kanu’s header floated over Mary Earps and hit the bar.
England had their complaints, with a first-half penalty demand knocked down by VAR after Rachel Daly felt Rasheedat Ajibade pushed her. Unlike China, the Lionesses failed to find their rhythm and flow. They held on during normal time and won the nerve-wracking penalty shootout. Lauren James had a good tournament until the red card. England’s 21-year-old star had excelled in Australia, helping the side win. However, the Michelle Alozie incident ruined her game and sidelined her for the quarterfinals.
England’s manager Sarina Wiegman commended the team’s perseverance and Nigeria’s performance despite the hurdles. The Lionesses will play Colombia or Jamaica in the quarterfinals Saturday at 11:30 BST. Nigeria finishes the Women’s World Cup with pride. Manager Randy Waldrum praised his team’s performance versus Olympic winners Canada and co-hosts Australia. Waldrum believes Nigeria’s women’s football future is bright after they showed their top-level potential.
