It was a distressing sight for England supporters in Brisbane as their team engaged in a tense 120-minute match against Nigeria. Throughout the game, England teetered on the edge and found themselves often playing second fiddle to Nigeria.
James’ outburst of frustration resulted in England navigating through extra time with 10 players, providing Nigeria with the momentum after a sustained period of pressure just before the Chelsea star’s ejection.
The 11-time African champions executed their game plan flawlessly, causing frustration for England by exploiting breaks and prevailing in nearly every contest.
They struck the crossbar in both halves — first, Ashleigh Plumptre’s powerful strike rebounded off the woodwork, followed by Uchenna Kanu’s header that looped over goalkeeper Mary Earps and grazed the top of the bar.
Earps was kept on her toes throughout the game, making crucial saves to thwart Plumptre’s near-post effort in the first half, and later denying Uchenna Kanu, who delivered an exceptional performance.
Sarina Wiegman’s England squad believed they had earned a penalty in the first half when Rachel Daly went down, claiming a foul by Rasheedat Ajibade. However, VAR overturned the decision.
Ultimately, England struggled to maintain the fluidity they had showcased impressively against China as they neared the end of normal time. Yet, they managed to hold on and secure victory in a shootout.
Merely a day prior, reigning champions the USA were eliminated from the tournament. England demonstrated resilience in overcoming one of the most demanding challenges during Wiegman’s tenure as head coach.
Despite Georgia Stanway, the initial penalty-taker, missing wide, Nigeria faltered in their subsequent two attempts. This allowed the European champions to secure a place in the quarter-finals when Chloe Kelly confidently netted the winning kick.
In a burst of frustration, Lauren James stamped on Michelle Alozie’s back in the 87th minute after losing possession. Consequently, a red card was rightly issued following a review by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
England received a significant scare but will now face either Colombia or Jamaica in their upcoming match.
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