Three Lionesses of England midfielder, Lauren James has apologized to Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie after she stepped on her buttocks during the Round of 16 clash between England and Nigeria on Monday.
James was sent off in the 87th minute after she brought Alozie to the ground and stepped on her.
The incident generated mixed reactions from Nigerian and English fans.
Some English fans said that James’ action wasn’t intentional and shouldn’t have attracted a Red Card while some Nigerians fans say that she should be punished more for her action.
However, in her reaction, Alozie urged fans to give the matter a break, stressing that she respects Lauren James a lot.
On her Twitter handle, she wrote: “Abeg, rest. We are playing on the world stage. This game is one of passion, insurmountable emotions, and moments. All respect for Lauren James.”
Quoting her tweet, James apologised for her action, saying she loves and respects Michelle.
She wrote: “All my love and respect to you. I am sorry for what happened. Also, for our England fans and my teammates, playing with and for you is my greatest honour, and I promise to learn from my experience.”