Matt Miazga suspended by MLS for three matches for misconduct

Matt Miazga has been suspended by the Major League Soccer disciplinary committee for three matches and issued an undisclosed fine for his misconduct following FC Cincinnati’s match against the New York Red Bulls on November 4.

The player must also undergo a "a behavioral assessment through the Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health (SABH) Program and may petition for a reduction in suspension based on continued commitment and compliance with any recommended treatment programs."

Miazga's suspension will be served during the remainder of the team's matches, ending his MLS Cup playoff campaign by ruling him out of the Eastern Conference final as FC Cincinnati hosts the Columbus Crew on Saturday, December 2 at TQL Stadium. 

Any other part of the suspension that isn't completed in 2023 will carry over to the 2024 campaign.

Miazga played a controversial role in the playoff match against the Red Bulls, earning a first yellow card for dissent after referee Victor Rivas had blown his whistle for full time, before being booked a second time when taunting opposing supporters in penalties. The referee cautioned the player after Miazga blew kisses and mouthed "I love you" to fans. 

Sources close to 90min confirmed that following Cincinnati's celebrations on the pitch, Miazga entered an area reserved only for referees in an attempt to speak with Rivas. Though not much was said at the time of the incident, the Professional Soccer Referees Association, released a statement on social media that an unidentified player "was forcibly removed by stadium security while acting in an aggressive & hostile manner."

Multiple reports claim the defender did not act in a violent manner, nor did the incident involve security. 

Cincinnati head coach Pat Noonan went on to comment on the situation, claiming the story has been fabricated: "It's an hour and a half after the game, [Miazga's] got a pizza box in his hand. I think people have this notion that he was in his cleats, running into that room. It's been fabricated, what happened."

Nevertheless, the 2023 MLS defender of the year will not make another postseason appearance this campaign.