It might be a long shot, but with a few games remaining in the season, Millwall still has a chance to get promoted from the Championship. This club, unlike almost any other in English football, boasts a fanbase that revels in the negative opinions others hold about them. Imagine them in the Premier League! It would undoubtedly make the 2025-26 season unlike any before.
While promotion is still improbable, the possibility is more alive now than it was recently. Other teams in the playoff contention stumbled, while Millwall secured a strong win against Norwich.
To reach the playoffs, Millwall needs other teams to falter. They are currently a few points outside the playoff zone and need favorable results from their rivals, as well as winning their own remaining matches against Swansea and Burnley.
Norwich Victory Highlights Millwall`s Strengths
Millwall`s recent victory over Norwich demonstrated their capabilities. They`ve won a significant number of their recent games, building momentum at a crucial point in the season. Their performance raises the question: what could happen if they reach the playoffs and succeed at Wembley?
According to football analyst Nigel Reo-Coker, Millwall`s approach to the game is reminiscent of grassroots football, but at a professional level. He emphasizes the intense atmosphere they would bring to the Premier League, fueled by their underdog status and the defiant attitude embodied in their chant: “No one likes us, we don`t care.” They are a club proud of their outsider image.
Millwall thrives as the underdog, embracing adversity and the feeling of being against the world. Their presence in the Premier League would guarantee an electrifying atmosphere at every match, an experience that has to be felt to be understood.
From a purely footballing perspective, Millwall would offer a fascinating contrast to many Premier League teams. In a league often focused on intricate passing and possession-based play, Millwall represents a different kind of footballing identity, one that values grit and determination.
While they could try to play a possession game, it wouldn`t be true to Millwall`s style. Their on-field approach mirrors their club`s identity off the pitch. The outdated image of hooliganism is just that – outdated – but Millwall still takes pride in being unconventional, going against the grain, and getting under the skin of their opponents.
When everything clicks, their home ground, The Den, becomes a cauldron of noise.
Norwich usually dominates possession in their matches. Millwall`s response was straightforward: take possession if you want it, we don`t need it for long. Their strategy involves direct play, getting the ball to their forwards and wide players, and winning individual battles. When executed effectively, as it was against Norwich, Millwall`s football is exciting to watch and incredibly difficult to play against.
Millwall`s high-pressing attack forced an early error from Norwich, leading to the first goal. The home crowd enthusiastically cheered their Serbian player, demonstrating their passionate support.
Despite Norwich`s possession, they struggled to break down Millwall`s defense, managing few shots on goal. While Norwich scored from a set piece, Millwall ultimately dominated set plays, scoring twice from corners to secure their victory.
As results from other matches came in, the anticipation at The Den grew. Two more wins, and the dream of Premier League football for the first time in decades becomes a real possibility.
Premier League Impact: More Than Just Football
Millwall`s passionate fanbase might worry some in the Premier League, but the club has actively worked to distance itself from negative aspects of its past. They`ve focused on community engagement, particularly in South London, and their community initiatives have received awards. The area around their stadium has changed too, reflecting a more modern and diverse environment.
However, Millwall`s intense atmosphere remains. Opponents can face hostile receptions and relentless jeering. Their rivalry with West Ham is particularly fierce, rooted in historical local competition. Matches between these two can be incredibly intense, requiring significant police presence.
Reo-Coker recalls the raw and electric atmosphere of the West Ham vs. Millwall derby, emphasizing the deep rivalry and immense pressure on players. These matches are about pride and even hatred, where winning against each other is paramount.
The police might not look forward to more Millwall derbies, especially against teams like Leeds, known for past fan clashes. Matches against Chelsea and Crystal Palace could also be highly charged.
Millwall in the Premier League would certainly bring complications, and promotion is still uncertain. But if it happens, the Premier League will experience something truly unique with the arrival of Millwall.
Adrian Whitmore