Columbus Crew fires Argentine reserve coach over referee intimidation claims

Columbus Crew has dismissed Federico Higuain, coach of the club's reserve team, after allegations of intimidation and sexist conduct toward a female referee.

Higuain, the brother of former Argentina and Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain, was recently suspended for two matches following an altercation with a referee during an MLS NEXT Pro match on August 23.

The Professional Soccer Referees Association, which represents match officials in the United States and Canada, announced that a male coach was suspended for two games after forcibly grabbing a female referee's hand and refusing to let go. He was also accused of telling her, "Don't forget, this is a men's game."