FC Cincinnati star Matt Miazga still subject to MLS investigation

FC Cincinnati are the favourites in their MLS Cup Playoff semi-final, but they will be without Matt Miazga for the visit of Philadelphia Union.

Miazga has been a key part of the Supporters’ Shield winners’ success this season and was recently named MLS Defender of the Year. But despite his impressive form the 28-year-old was sent off in bizarre circumstances during the Round One game against New York Red Bulls.

He picked up a booking during the regulation 90 minutes, before receiving a second in the penalty shoot-out for goading the RBNY supporters. Players cannot be sent off for a second yellow card in a penalty shoot-out, but the second booking was his third of the playoffs. This ensured that he picked up a one-game suspension.

However he is still the subject of an MLS investigation into his post-game conduct, leaving open the possibility that his suspension could be extended further.

Summary: FC Cincinnati vs Philadelphia Union

When will Matt Miazga be back for Cincinnati?

Miazga earnt a suspension for his penalty shout-out exploits, but he could have received additional punishment. After the game the Professional Soccer Referees Association released a statement claiming that a player had been “forcibly removed” by security after gaining access to the officials’ locker room.

The Philadelphia Enquirer revealed that Miazga was the player in question, but later reports suggested that the extent of the breach had been exaggerated. Stadium security are not thought to have been involved.

That means that Miazga should avoid further punishment and be eligible to return for the Eastern Conference final, assuming that his side make it through.

But the MLS has not yet released the findings from its formal investigation into the locker room incident, meaning that Cincinnati fans will have to wait until after the semi-final clash for a definite verdict.