Fifa Women’s World Cup: England beat Nigeria on penalties after Lauren James is sent off for ‘David Beckham’ stamp
- ‘Lionesses’ reach quarterfinals after prevailing 4-2 in penalty shoot-out with match still goalless after extra time
- England’s James shown red card for intentionally stamping on the back of Nigeria’s Michelle Alozia
England managed to move into the quarter finals of the Women’s World Cup despite a red card for star player Lauren James, beating Nigeria on penalties on Monday, while Australia later beat Denmark 2-0.
The round-of-16 tie was still goalless after extra time in Brisbane, with Nigeria looking to win their first ever knockout match on the nine occasions they have reached the tournament.
But European champions England easily won the shoot-out 4-2, missing only one kick at Suncorp Stadium.
“It’s amazing. Anything that’s thrown at us. We’ve shown what we’re capable of,” England’s Chloe Kelly said in a post-match interview.
“We dig deep as a group and we believe in our ability. This team is special. We keep pushing forward – there’s more to come from this special side.”
The Lionesses became favourites for the title after defending champions the United States were eliminated on Sunday, in a penalty shoot-out loss to Sweden.