Cincinnati’s Miazga Suspended by MLS for 3 Games Due to ‘Misconduct’

The recent suspension of FC Cincinnati defender Matt Miazga by the MLS Disciplinary Committee has caused quite a stir. Miazga has been suspended for three matches and issued an undisclosed fine for “misconduct” after his team’s playoff win over the New York Red Bulls on Nov. 4.

According to a source familiar with the league’s investigation, Miazga’s suspension stems from gaining unauthorized access to an area reserved for match referees.

When contacted by ESPN, Peter Manikowski, president of the Professional Soccer Referees Association, referred to the referees’ match report, which detailed Miazga’s uninvited entry, use of foul language, and aggressive behavior in the referees’ locker room after the match.

As of now, FC Cincinnati has not responded to requests for comment regarding the suspension.

Miazga, who was named MLS Defender of the Year for 2023, has also been fined and will need to undergo a behavioral assessment as part of the league’s Substance and Behavioral Health Program. MLS stated that Miazga “may petition for a reduction in suspension based on continued commitment and compliance with any recommended treatment programs.”

The suspension effectively ends Miazga’s campaign, ruling him out of the Eastern Conference final against the Columbus Crew and potentially the MLS Cup final if Cincinnati advances. Any portion of the suspension not served in 2023 will carry over to the 2024 season.

During the playoff series against the New York Red Bulls, Miazga was booked for dissent in the second match and subsequently suspended for the Eastern Conference semifinal against the Philadelphia Union, which FCC won 1-0 last weekend.

Video evidence also shows Miazga attempting to speak with referee Victor Rivas in an area reserved for referees after the match, according to sources.

Conflicting descriptions of the incident emerged in the aftermath, with one source claiming Miazga was forcibly removed by stadium security, while another source contradicted this account. FCC manager Pat Noonan has also spoken out, stating that the incident has been exaggerated.