It was a night of grit, precision, and clinical execution at Loftus Road as Millwall carved out a vital 2-1 victory over Queens Park Rangers in a fiercely contested Championship fixture. The win, powered by goals from Femi Azeez and Mihailo Ivanovic, marked another significant step forward for Joe Edwards’ side, who continue to display growth and determination under his guidance. For QPR, however, it was another frustrating evening marked by missed chances and lapses in concentration that ultimately cost them valuable points at home.
Early Tension and Tactical Duel
From the opening whistle, both teams signaled their intent to play an attacking brand of football. QPR, under the stewardship of Martí Cifuentes, sought to control possession and dictate the rhythm through quick, short passes and movement between the lines. Millwall, however, adopted a more direct and structured approach, pressing high when possible and exploiting the flanks with speed and physicality.
The early exchanges were tense, with neither side able to settle. QPR’s midfield trio of Jack Colback, Sam Field, and Chris Willock tried to establish control, while Millwall’s George Saville and Ryan Leonard focused on breaking up play and launching counterattacks. The crowd, ever passionate at Loftus Road, roared their support as both teams battled for dominance.
Azeez Breaks the Deadlock
The breakthrough came in the 28th minute, and it was a moment of brilliance from Millwall’s summer signing, Femi Azeez. The 22-year-old winger, who joined from Reading, has been steadily finding his rhythm in the Championship, and his confidence was on full display. Picking up the ball on the right flank, Azeez danced past his marker, cut inside with a deft touch, and curled a beautiful left-footed strike past Asmir Begović into the far corner.
It was the kind of goal that silenced the home crowd momentarily — a reminder of Azeez’s explosive potential and why Millwall fought to secure his signature. His pace and directness had been troubling QPR’s left-back Kenneth Paal from the outset, and the goal only heightened his influence in the game.
QPR’s Response and Equalizer
QPR, however, were not content to sit back. Just before halftime, they found their equalizer through Ilias Chair, the team’s creative heartbeat. A clever one-two between Willock and Chair unlocked Millwall’s defense, allowing Chair to slot home calmly past Matija Sarkic in goal. The equalizer was met with thunderous applause from the home supporters, who sensed that momentum was swinging in their favor.
At 1-1, the game was perfectly poised. The halftime whistle came as a relief to both managers — Edwards eager to reinforce defensive discipline, and Cifuentes determined to encourage more sharpness in the final third.
Second-Half Intensity Ivanovic Takes Center Stage
The second half began at a blistering pace, with both sides pressing aggressively. QPR looked to push forward through Chair and Willock, while Millwall relied on quick transitions. The midfield battle intensified, and the tackles flew in hard but fair.
Then came the defining moment of the match in the 64th minute. A well-executed corner routine from Millwall saw George Saville deliver a teasing ball into the box. QPR’s defense hesitated for just a split second, and that was all Mihailo Ivanovic needed. The Serbian striker, who has been gradually establishing himself as a reliable finisher, rose highest to power a header past Begović.
The goal was a testament to Ivanovic’s growing confidence and aerial dominance. Since joining Millwall, he has been known for his work rate and pressing ability, but this match highlighted his evolving instinct in front of goal. The away section erupted in celebration, waving flags and chanting his name — the Lions were back in front.
Defensive Resilience and Tactical Discipline
After regaining the lead, Millwall showcased remarkable defensive organization. Captain Jake Cooper marshaled the backline superbly, clearing crosses and snuffing out potential threats. Full-backs Danny McNamara and Murray Wallace worked tirelessly to contain QPR’s wide players, while Ryan Leonard provided a crucial screen in front of the defense.
Edwards’ tactical discipline was evident. Millwall didn’t just sit back — they maintained compactness while still looking for opportunities on the counterattack. Azeez nearly doubled his tally in the 75th minute after breaking free on the right, but Begović produced a sharp save to keep QPR’s hopes alive.
QPR threw men forward in the final quarter of the match. Lyndon Dykes and Sinclair Armstrong were introduced to add physical presence in attack, while Chair continued to pull the strings creatively. Despite several late corners and a few nervy moments, Millwall held firm.
Late Drama and Millwall’s Character
As the clock ticked into added time, the tension inside Loftus Road reached its peak. QPR thought they had snatched a late equalizer when Dykes bundled the ball into the net following a goalmouth scramble — but the flag went up for offside. The decision sparked outrage from the home fans, but replays confirmed that Dykes had indeed strayed just beyond the last defender.
Millwall’s players celebrated the call with clenched fists, rallying around each other to see out the final moments. When the referee finally blew for full-time, the roar from the visiting supporters echoed through the stadium. It was a hard-earned victory that showcased Millwall’s growing resilience and belief.
Azeez and Ivanovic The Difference Makers
For Millwall, the performance of Femi Azeez and Mihailo Ivanovic stood out as the defining factors. Azeez’s dynamism on the wing gave Millwall a vital attacking outlet throughout the match, constantly stretching QPR’s defense and creating space for his teammates. His goal, a mixture of flair and precision, set the tone for the team’s confidence.
Ivanovic, on the other hand, exemplified the importance of presence and positioning. His winning header was not just about strength — it was about timing and instinct. The Serbian forward seems to be hitting his stride at the perfect time, adding another dimension to Millwall’s attack.
Both players have become symbols of the club’s current evolution — young, hungry, and determined to make their mark in the Championship.
Manager’s Reaction
After the game, Millwall manager Joe Edwards praised his team’s determination and work ethic. “We knew this was going to be a tough match. QPR have quality all over the pitch, but our boys showed real character tonight,” said Edwards. “Femi’s goal was top class, and Ivanovic’s header showed exactly what we’ve been working on — aggression and composure in key moments.”
He also emphasized the team’s growing maturity. “It’s not just about playing pretty football; it’s about finding ways to win. We managed the game better in the second half, and that’s what makes the difference at this level.”
Cifuentes’ Perspective
QPR boss Martí Cifuentes, meanwhile, expressed disappointment but remained optimistic. “We created chances, and the effort from the players was there. But we were punished for small lapses in concentration,” he said. “Against teams like Millwall, you can’t afford to switch off, even for a second.”
Cifuentes highlighted the need for sharper finishing and better decision-making in the final third. “We’re playing good football, but results matter. We’ll keep working, and I’m confident we’ll turn it around.”
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