England defender Jarell Quansah has been suspended for two matches following his red card in the World Cup last-16 victory over Mexico.
FIFA imposed the punishment after classifying Quansah’s challenge as serious foul play. The decision rules him out of Saturday’s quarter-final against Norway in Miami and a potential semi-final against Argentina or Switzerland.
The 23-year-old would therefore only be available again if England reach the World Cup final.
Quansah was dismissed in the 54th minute of England’s dramatic 3-2 win at the Estadio Azteca. Referee Alireza Faghani initially allowed play to continue after the Bayer Leverkusen defender challenged Mexico left-back Jesús Gallardo.
However, the official was advised to review the incident by the video assistant referee. After examining slow-motion footage and freeze-frames on the pitch-side monitor, Faghani showed Quansah a red card for a sliding, studs-up tackle.
The Football Association had considered challenging the decision, particularly after FIFA suspended the one-match ban given to United States striker Folarin Balogun earlier in the tournament. However, an FA spokesperson said the competition’s rules did not permit England to appeal Quansah’s suspension.
Bukayo Saka described the news as “incredibly frustrating” for both Quansah and the squad but said England must accept the decision and concentrate on beating Norway.
The suspension has added to Thomas Tuchel’s selection difficulties in defence. Reece James has missed England’s past three matches because of a hamstring injury and remains doubtful for the quarter-final, although he could be fit enough for a place among the substitutes.
Djed Spence represents the most natural alternative at right-back. Tuchel could also move Ezri Konsa into the position, as he did after Quansah’s dismissal against Mexico, although the England manager has previously indicated that he would prefer to keep Konsa alongside Marc Guehi in central defence.
Guehi is also dealing with a hamstring issue, raising the possibility of John Stones returning to the starting side. Declan Rice, meanwhile, has been recovering from illness ahead of Saturday’s match.
England now face a Norway team appearing in its first World Cup quarter-final and led by Erling Haaland, who has scored seven goals during the tournament.