Overview
Millwall expects the passionate atmosphere at The Den to become a fulcrum to help them overcome Hull City in the second leg of the Championship play-off semi-finals.
The two teams entered this match after a tense 0-0 draw at MKM stadium in the first leg. That result made the rematch in London a real final to win a ticket to Wembley, where Southampton or Middlesbrough are waiting in the remaining semi-finals.
If they advance, this will be Millwall's first time in history to reach the Championship play-off final. Meanwhile, Hull City is aiming for their third play-off final, after successes in 2008 and 2016.
The first leg took place tightly with few clear chances. Mohamed Belloumi had a remarkable acceleration sending the ball close to Anthony Patterson's goalpost right at the beginning of the match. In the opposite direction, Camiel Neghli also sent the ball hitting the post of the goal guarded by Ivor Pandur in the second half.
One of Millwall's most notable highlights is the ability to take advantage of set pieces. Captain Jake Cooper created the most chances in the first leg, and won three out of four aerial duels.
This season, Cooper achieved a high ball win rate of up to 73.6% - in the best group in the Championship.
Air combat capability is also Millwall's major weapon at home. In 2026, 11 of their 18 home goals in the Championship came from set pieces, including free kicks, throw-ins and corner kicks.
In the opposite direction, Hull City will place expectations on Kyle Joseph if he is given the opportunity to start instead of Belloumi or Liam Millar. Joseph has contributed to 3 of Hull's 4 goals against Millwall this season with two goals and one assist.
However, recent away form is a worrying issue for Hull. Jakirovic's team has only won one of their last seven away games in the Championship, losing 4 matches in that streak.
It is noteworthy that Hull spent the season in particularly difficult circumstances when they were subject to a transfer ban, forcing them to use free contracts or loans. However, the Yorkshire team still created a surprise when they broke into the top 6.
In terms of force, Millwall may continue to be without Caleb Taylor, but Josh Coburn has returned with many positive signals in attack. Neil will also consider using Alfie Doughty after Thierno Ballo's lackluster performance in the first leg.
On Hull's side, Cody Drameh, Eliot Matazo, Toby Collyer and Amir Hadziahmetovic are definitely absent.
Head-to-head record
Hull City has reason to be confident before the away match at The Den when they once defeated Millwall 3-1 at this stadium in December last year.
Not only winning this season, Hull also has a fairly impressive head-to-head record at The Den recently. "The Tigers" have won in the last two away games against Millwall, including a 1-0 victory in January 2025.
Notably, these two victories equal the total number of wins that Hull has won in 27 previous away games at Millwall - where they had drawn 10 and lost up to 15 matches.
The last time Millwall defeated Hull at home was in April 2022. Since then, they have not been able to beat this opponent in four consecutive receptions at The Den.
Score prediction: Millwall 2-1 Hull City
The match between Millwall and Hull City takes place at 2:00 a.m. on May 12 (Vietnam time).
