Millwall vs Sheffield Wednesday Match Recap - Nov 26, 2025

Millwall's Resurgence: A 1-0 Victory Over Sheffield Wednesday Signals Hope Amidst Struggles

Millwall's 1-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday at The Den marks a crucial turning point for a team that has been searching for consistency. After a disheartening run of form, this win not only secures three points but also injects much-needed confidence into the squad. Femi Azeez, who scored the decisive goal, continues to be a beacon of hope for Millwall, showcasing his ability to deliver when it matters most.

Millwall's recent performances have been a mixed bag, with only one win in their last five matches prior to this fixture. The team had struggled to convert chances into goals, averaging just 0.50 expected goals (xG) per match in that stretch. This match, however, saw them improve significantly in both attacking and defensive metrics. They dominated possession with 57%, reflecting a more assertive approach that had been lacking in previous outings. The increase in total shots, from an average of seven to eleven against Sheffield Wednesday, indicates a renewed offensive intent.

Sheffield Wednesday's plight deepens with this defeat, extending their winless streak to six matches. Sitting at the bottom of the table with only one win in fifteen games, their struggles are evident. Despite holding 59% possession against Sheffield United in their last match, they failed to convert that control into meaningful chances, managing just 0.33 xG. This pattern continued against Millwall, where they were unable to capitalize on their possession, finishing with only 0.52 xG despite a commendable effort in passing accuracy at 67%.

Azeez's goal came at a pivotal moment in the match, showcasing his knack for finding the net when his team needs it most. His performance is a continuation of his recent form; he scored the winner against Leicester just weeks prior. This consistency is vital for Millwall as they look to build momentum moving forward. The reliance on Azeez highlights a potential over-dependence on individual brilliance rather than a cohesive team effort, which could be a concern as they face tougher opponents ahead.

Defensively, Millwall showed resilience, limiting Sheffield Wednesday to just three shots on target. This marked an improvement from their previous matches where defensive lapses had cost them dearly. The backline, led by Jake Cooper, effectively neutralized threats from Sheffield Wednesday's attack, which has struggled to find its rhythm all season. The ability to maintain a clean sheet will be crucial as they prepare for their next match against Southampton.

Sheffield Wednesday's inability to convert possession into goals remains their Achilles' heel. Despite having players like Barry Bannan, who has shown flashes of creativity, the team lacks the finishing touch needed to turn draws into wins. Their recent matches have seen them dominate possession yet fail to translate that into scoring opportunities. This trend continued against Millwall, where they managed only eight total shots and struggled to break down a resolute defense.

The tactical battle between the two coaches also played a significant role in the outcome. Millwall's Francis Neil opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation that allowed for quick transitions and width in attack, effectively utilizing players like Thierno Ballo on the flanks. In contrast, Sheffield Wednesday's Henrik Pedersen employed a 3-4-2-1 setup that aimed for flexibility but ultimately fell short against Millwall's pressing game.

Looking ahead, Millwall's victory provides a much-needed boost as they prepare for their next fixture against Southampton. With newfound confidence and a solid defensive display, they will aim to build on this momentum and solidify their position in the playoff race. Conversely, Sheffield Wednesday must regroup quickly as they face Preston next, needing to find solutions to their ongoing scoring woes if they hope to escape the relegation zone.

This match encapsulated the contrasting fortunes of both teams: Millwall's resurgence and Sheffield Wednesday's ongoing struggles. Azeez's goal not only secured the win but also highlighted the importance of individual contributions in a team sport where collective effort is paramount. As the season progresses, both teams will need to address their respective challenges if they wish to achieve their goals come May.