Chicago Fire coach Veljko Paunovic ejected during New York City FC match

Robert Sibiga dismisses Veljko Paunovic

BRONX, N.Y. — Chicago Fire coach Veljko Paunovic was sent from the sideline by referee Robert Sibiga in the 80th minute of New York City FC’s1-0 win over the Fire at Yankee Stadium Wednesday night.


Paunovic appeared agitated throughout the match, voicing his displeasure at both Sibiga and fourth official Lorant Varga.

After already receiving a warning, Paunovic was banished by Sibiga late, and continued to voice his displeasure on his slow walk around the field and down the tunnel toward the Fire locker room.


“We have seen in this league many times that plays like that were played on and I just think that it’s not correct to send me off for that," Paunovic said after the match. "I want to be in Montreal. I want to be clear. I want to be in that game. I don’t deserve to be sent off for this. This is not good.”