Major League Soccer announced a two‑game suspension for FC Cincinnati midfielder Gerardo Valenzuela after a post‑match altercation that erupted following a hard foul on Columbus Crew’s Taha Habroune. The league also levied fines against club officials and several players who joined the melee after the final whistle.
Valenzuela’s red card was issued for the foul that sent the Columbus forward sprawling, and the disciplinary panel added an extra match ban for his role in the ensuing confrontation. The incident, which began moments after the foul and intensified once the game was officially over, drew a crowd of angry players from both sides.
Disciplinary response sends a clear message
The league determined that both Cincinnati and Columbus had violated its Mass Confrontation Policy, a rule designed to prevent on‑field brawls from spilling into the stands or locker rooms. As a result, monetary penalties were levied against club executives and individual participants.
Pat Noonan, the head coach of FC Cincinnati, was among the officials fined, while league officials noted that Valenzuela had previously received a similar sanction earlier in the season. The suspension will keep the midfielder out of the next two league fixtures, though he will be eligible for the upcoming Leagues Cup.
In a brief statement, Valenzuela acknowledged his mistake and said he would focus on helping his team in the Leagues Cup, a separate competition that does not carry over MLS disciplinary measures. He expressed regret for the role he played in the chaotic scene.
The fallout underscores the league’s commitment to enforcing conduct standards, even as teams such as the San Jose Earthquakes, Orlando City SC, and New England Revolution watch the developments closely. Media outlets such as the Columbus Dispatch and The Enquirer have reported extensively on the case.