FC Cincinnati’s Matt Miazga has had his season cut short due to actions taken after the Nov. 4 game against the New York Red Bulls. Major League Soccer officials announced on Wednesday that Miazga is being sanctioned as a result of his behavior following the match and that he will be suspended for three games, with the remaining to be served during the 2024 regular season. In addition, Miazga will have to pay an unspecified amount in fines.
As part of the disciplinary measures, Miazga will also be required to attend a behavioral assessment through the Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program and comply with any recommended treatment plans. The defender, however, can petition for a reduction in suspension based on his continued commitment to and compliance with the treatment. Despite the sanction, Miazga’s status as the MLS Defender of the Year and his spot on the 2023 MLS Best XI remains unchanged.
FC Cincinnati fought the sanctions, but without success. Video footage from Red Bull Arena played a significant role in the investigation’s findings according to a league source with knowledge of the case.
Miazga’s suspension comes at the conclusion of a long and controversial three-week period. Because of the suspension, he will miss the rest of FC Cincinnati’s postseason games. The team is hosting Columbus Crew in the Eastern Conference semifinal at TQL Stadium. He will also miss the beginning of the 2024 season if the team does not advance to the final.
The saga began on Nov. 4 when the Professional Soccer Referees Association stated that an unnamed player forcibly entered a referees’ locker room after the game between Cincinnati and the Red Bulls, leading to a call for MLS to take disciplinary action.
There were contradictory accounts of Miazga’s actions that night, with FC Cincinnati Head Coach Pat Noonan disputing the allegations and calling them “fabricated.” One league source revealed a different account of Miazga’s actions during the events at Red Bull Arena.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Matt Miazga sanctioned following post-match behavior vs. Red Bulls
Michael Johnson is your soccer guru, providing extensive coverage of soccer. With a global perspective, he delivers match reports, player interviews, and insights into the beautiful game, ensuring readers stay connected to the world of soccer.
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