Millwall have reached the FA Cup fifth round for the first time since 2019, overcoming Leeds United at Elland Road thanks to a Femi Azeez brace and an outstanding penalty save from Liam Roberts.
In an all-Championship clash, Azeez opened the scoring just before half-time, driving forward before his deflected shot wrong-footed Karl Darlow. The midfielder struck again in the second half, this time squeezing a shot past Darlow at the near post via another deflection.
Leeds Pay the Price for Missed Opportunities
Despite making 10 changes from their previous league fixture, Championship leaders Leeds created several chances but struggled to convert them. Their best opportunity to mount a comeback arrived when Pascal Struijk stepped up for a penalty, only to see his effort brilliantly kept out by Roberts.
Millwall, under the guidance of Alex Neil, showed composure in the closing stages to see out their fourth consecutive victory across all competitions and end Leeds’ 15-game unbeaten run.
Leeds, currently two points clear at the top of the Championship, fielded a youthful and heavily rotated team, with Ethan Ampadu the only player retained from their recent win over Coventry. While Sam Chambers impressed on his full debut, the home side’s lack of sharpness in attack ultimately proved costly.
Azeez’s first goal came after Leeds surrendered possession in their own half, and Millwall could have doubled their lead before the interval had Luke Cundle converted a close-range header after Azeez rattled the crossbar. The Lions did not have to wait long, however, as Azeez struck again early in the second half.
Leeds had another lifeline when Cundle fouled Wilfried Gnonto inside the box, but Roberts produced a stunning low save to deny Struijk and ensure Millwall’s passage into the next round.
Millwall Boss’s View
Millwall boss Alex Neil was delighted with his side’s performance, given the stature of Elland Road and Leeds’ performance in the Championship this season.
“I thought we played really well. Leeds is the toughest place in the Championship to come, but the most pleasing thing was how we played. We were a threat throughout the game and the players were excellent.”
Writer’s View
This was a statement performance from Millwall, who not only took their chances clinically but also defended with determination when it mattered most. Roberts’ penalty save was the defining moment, while Azeez capitalised on Leeds’ mistakes to deliver the knockout blows. For Daniel Farke’s side, this defeat will serve as a reminder of the depth issues that could prove costly in their promotion push.
