Austin FC’s Besard Sabovic Scrutinized: Midfielder Fined for Simulation
Austin FC’s Besard Sabovic Scrutinized: Midfielder Fined for Simulation
Austin FC’s recent marquee signing, Besard Sabovic, is finding that the transition to Major League Soccer comes with intense scrutiny both on and off the ball. Following Austin’s 2-1 defeat to the LA Galaxy on Matchday 7, the MLS Disciplinary Committee announced that the Swedish midfielder has been fined for simulation and embellishment. The ruling stems from an incident in the 57th minute at Q2 Stadium, where Sabovic was judged to have intentionally deceived the referee to win a foul.
Sabovic, who joined Austin from Djurgårdens IF in the winter to provide "physicality and vision" to the midfield, has been a central figure in Nico Estévez's tactical setup. However, the simulation fine adds to a frustrating start for the club, which currently languishes with a 1-3-3 record. While Sabovic’s technical quality has been evident, his attempt to gain an unfair advantage in the Galaxy match has drawn sharp criticism from analysts who labeled the move a "masterclass in deception."
Galaxy Edge Out Struggling Austin Side
The match itself highlighted Austin's ongoing struggles with chance creation. Despite Brad Stuver continuing to prove why he is one of the league's elite shot-stoppers, the Galaxy found ways to breach the defense. Erik Thommy’s winner ultimately sealed the three points for the visitors, leaving Austin with just one win in their opening seven matches. The Verde and Black have struggled to convert possession into dangerous opportunities, a problem that Sporting Director Rodolfo Borrell hoped Sabovic would help solve.
Stats from the match show that Austin’s xG (expected goals) remains among the lowest in the league. While holdovers like Dani Pereira and Owen Wolff have worked hard to maintain control in the middle of the park, the lack of a consistent goal threat is palpable. The disciplinary action against Sabovic serves as an unwelcome distraction for a team that desperately needs to focus on its offensive identity.
Impact of the Disciplinary Rulings
The league's decision to fine Sabovic is part of a broader Matchday 7 crackdown that also saw Portland’s Kristoffer Velde penalized. For Austin FC, the fine is less about the monetary cost and more about the reputation of their new Designated Player. Sabovic arrived with a resume that included UEFA Conference League experience, and he was expected to bring a level of professional maturity to the squad. As Austin prepares to face Toronto FC on April 18, all eyes will be on Sabovic to see if he can channel his intensity into positive contributions rather than headline-grabbing theatrics.
