Super Falcons vs England: Nigerians condemn Lauren James’s tackle on Alozie as racism

The Nigerian community has expressed strong disapproval of the tackle on Super Falcons star, Michelle Alozie, during the World Cup last-16 clash between England and Nigeria, which ended in a goalless draw after regular time.

In the 87th minute of the match in Brisbane, England’s 21-year-old forward, Lauren James, was sent off after making contact with Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie. Initially, she received a yellow card, but after VAR intervention, the referee, Melissa Borjas, reviewed the incident on the pitchside monitor and changed the card to a red, reducing England to 10 players for extra time.

Throughout the game, James and her fellow attackers faced difficulties against the solid Nigerian defense. England’s few chances, including attempts by Alessia Russo and Rachel Daly, were thwarted by Chiamaka Nnadozie’s impressive goalkeeping. Furthermore, England had a first-half penalty decision for a challenge on Daly overturned by VAR.

Despite the one-player advantage in extra time, Nigeria ultimately lost the match on penalties.

In light of the incident involving Lauren James, many Nigerians have labeled her action as racism.