England's Lauren James has been suspended for two games by FIFA following her red card in Monday's Women's World Cup match. The 21-year-old forward will miss England's quarterfinal against Colombia on Saturday, and if England advances, she will also miss the semifinal against either Australia or France. However, James will be available to play in either the final or the third-place playoff depending on England's performance in the next two matches.

The incident that led to James' suspension occurred in the 87th minute of England's Round of 16 win against Nigeria. James collided with Nigeria defender Michelle Alozie and stepped on her back as she lay on the ground. Initially, James was issued a yellow card by referee Melissa Borjas, but after a VAR review, the decision was upgraded to a straight red card.

Following the match, Alozie took a high road and expressed a classy message for James on social media. She wrote, "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." James saw the message and responded, apologizing to Alozie for the incident and expressing her love and respect.

Before her red card, James had a strong start to the World Cup, scoring the game-winning goal against Denmark in the group stage and impressing with two goals and three assists against China. Her absence in the upcoming matches will be a blow for England, as she has been a key contributor to their success so far.

The English Football Association released a statement in support of James, stating that she is "really sorry" and "full of remorse." They will be providing representation on her behalf during FIFA's disciplinary process. The two-match ban imposed on James is on the lower end of punishment for serious foul play and could have been extended to three matches, which would have ended her tournament run.

England's quarterfinal match against Colombia will be a significant challenge without James, but the team will be aiming to continue their successful campaign and secure a spot in the semifinals.