FIFA opens disciplinary action against Cameroon after England defeat

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England's goalkeeper Karen Bardsley (R) boxes the ball in front of Cameroon's forward Alexandra Takounda (L) and England's defender Millie Bright (C) during the 2019 Women's World Cup in Valenciennes, northern France, June 23, 2019. /VCG Photo

FIFA on Wednesday announced disciplinary proceedings against Cameroon for misconduct and offensive behavior in their women's World Cup match against England.

England won Sunday's last 16 tie 3-0 but the game was marked by Cameroon players' furious response to several refereeing decisions.

Several Cameroon players remonstrated with the referee and for a long time refused to restart the match after England’s second goal was ruled offside and then allowed after Chinese referee Qin Liang consulted with the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).

Referee Qin Liang checks the VAR screen during the game. /VCG Photo

Cameroon then thought they had pulled a goal back early in the second half, but VAR again ruled against them for a marginal offside – sparking more chaotic scenes.

England coach Phil Neville said after the encounter he was left "utterly ashamed" by the behavior of the Cameroon players.

While Cameroon coach Alain Djeumfa said his team had been the victims of an "injustice".

(With input from AFP and Reuters)