In a pulsating Saturday afternoon clash at The Den, Millwall delivered their most convincing performance of the season, dispatching West Bromwich Albion 3-0 with a blend of defensive grit and attacking ruthlessness. The result not only lifts Millwall into the Championship’s mid-table comfort zone but sends a strong message about their credentials under Alexander Neil, while West Brom—boasting superior possession and passing—were left searching for answers after a display as profligate as it was punished.

Key Moments and Match Flow

Despite West Brom commanding 61% possession and completing over 480 passes, it was Millwall who struck first. The breakthrough arrived in the 18th minute: center-back Jake Cooper rose highest to power home a header from Femi Azeez’s pinpoint corner, sending a raucous home crowd into early celebration. The defensive resolve and discipline from Neil’s charges—who registered just 39% possession—set the stage for their counterattacking masterclass.

West Brom had the lion’s share of the ball but struggled to turn their dominance into clear chances, managing only one shot on target. Their frustration was evident as Chris Mepham and Callum Styles both went into the referee’s book before half-time.

The match turned decisively in the 56th minute, and in spectacular fashion. Femi Azeez, already provider for the opener, picked up the ball 25 yards out and unleashed a curling strike that left Joshua Griffiths stranded—a goal immediately lauded as a “goal of the season” contender by pundits. The youthful midfielder’s celebration matched the exuberance of the moment—a stunning individual highlight punctuating a clinical team display.

Millwall’s relentless energy did not wane. In the 72nd minute, fullback Zak Sturge capped the performance by latching onto a clever pass from Thierno Ballo and coolly finishing for his first league goal, all but sealing the win.

Player Performances and Tactical Themes

• Femi Azeez was the undoubted star, contributing a goal and an assist, as well as driving Millwall’s most dangerous moves.
• Jake Cooper anchored the backline while also making the crucial breakthrough goal.
• Millwall’s midfield, notably Billy Mitchell and Will Smallbone, provided the balance and work rate that suffocated West Brom’s creativity despite conceding territory.

West Brom, for all their passing accuracy and territorial advantage, could not muster the cutting edge needed. Aune Selland Heggebø and Jed Wallace were largely isolated up front, with Steven Benda’s only notable save coming late on.

Broader Implications

This result halts Millwall’s winless run and provides a major boost in confidence, while West Brom are left with tactical questions after a heavy defeat that belied their statistical superiority. As the Championship schedule intensifies, Millwall’s clinical edge and defensive resilience could prove indispensable in their quest for a playoff push.

Video Recap:

• Watch the official match highlights on Sky Sports Football .
• Femi Azeez’s stunning strike featured in Sky Sports’ “Goal of the Season contender” segment .