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MLS: Cincinnati star faces heavy punishment for entering referee locker room

FC Cincinnati
"FC Cincinnati vs. Indy Eleven" by MediaGamut is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0.
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Professional Soccer Referees Association has described Matt Miazga’s behaviour as “aggressive and hostile”.

FC Cincinnati defender Matt Miazga is facing severe consequences, including a three-game suspension and a hefty fine, for breaching disciplinary rules.

The incident occurred after Cincinnati’s intense clash with the New York Red Bulls in November, resulting in a dramatic 1-1 draw and a subsequent penalty shootout victory.

Miazga’s suspension stems from his post-game actions, where he entered the referee’s locker room without authorization, displaying what the Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) described as “aggressive and hostile” behaviour.

The defender, who received two yellow cards during the match, allegedly sought a confrontation with the referees to discuss the decisions that led to his bookings.

Miazga’s suspension will keep him out of action in Cincinnati’s upcoming Eastern Conference final against Columbus on December 3.

The 28-year-old defender, who started his career with the New York Red Bulls, returned to the MLS with FC Cincinnati in August 2022. His notable contributions, including being named a 2023 MLS All-Star and earning the 2023 MLS Defender of the Year award, highlight the impact of his absence in the crucial upcoming match.

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