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Championship Drama Unfolds at The Den
In a match that could define their season, Millwall reignited their Championship play-off hopes with a commanding 3-1 victory over Norwich City at The Den. Serbian striker Mihailo Ivanovic emerged as the hero with a crucial brace, propelling the Lions to within striking distance of the top six. This Marvelbet exclusive breakdown reveals how Alex Neil’s men turned their fortunes around after Friday’s disappointing 4-1 defeat at Blackburn.
Tactical Masterclass Seals Crucial Three Points
The Lions’ victory wasn’t just about individual brilliance – it was a textbook demonstration of how to bounce back from adversity. Alex Neil’s tactical adjustments proved decisive:
First Half Dominance
Millwall struck early through Ivanovic’s eighth-minute opener, capitalizing on Norwich’s defensive fragility. The Serbian’s movement in the box proved too much for the Canaries’ backline as he converted Femi Azeez’s cross with precision.
Norwich, playing for little more than pride after a mediocre season, showed flashes of threat through Josh Sargent and Borja Sainz. However, Millwall’s defensive organization, led by the impressive Tristan Crama, limited the visitors to half-chances.
Second Half Control
After Azeez doubled the lead before halftime, Millwall managed the game expertly despite Shane Duffy’s stoppage-time header giving Norwich hope. The Lions’ midfield trio of George Saville, Luke Cundle, and Josh Coburn controlled possession and tempo, with Saville’s set-piece delivery proving particularly dangerous.
Play-Off Picture: Millwall’s Late Surge
This victory takes on added significance when examining the Championship table:
- Millwall now sit just three points behind sixth-placed Coventry
- Four teams above them dropped points this matchday
- The Lions have two winnable fixtures remaining to complete their late charge
As Championship expert Mark Thompson noted in his Marvelbet column: “Millwall’s resilience has been remarkable. After the Blackburn defeat, many wrote them off, but they’ve shown the character of true promotion contenders.”
Player Spotlight: Ivanovic’s Coming of Age
The 22-year-old Serbian’s performance deserves special attention:
- First senior brace for Millwall
- 83% pass accuracy in dangerous areas
- 5 aerial duels won (team high)
- Clinical finishing when it mattered most
“His movement for both goals showed real intelligence,” observed former Premier League striker Glenn Murray on Marvelbet‘s Championship podcast. “At this stage of the season, that composure in front of goal is priceless.”
What This Means for Both Clubs
Millwall’s Play-Off Destiny
With momentum building, Millwall now face:
- A must-win home game against already-relegated Rotherham
- A potential winner-takes-all final day clash at Sunderland
Alex Neil’s post-match comments captured the mood: “Every time we’ve suffered a setback the response has been emphatic. We’ve got to win the next game and take it to the final game. Stranger things have happened in football.”
Norwich’s Season of Disappointment
For the Canaries, this defeat caps a forgettable campaign:
- Just one win in last 10 matches
- Likely lowest Championship finish since 2009
- Major squad overhaul expected this summer
New manager Johannes Hoff Thorup admitted: “We are struggling and finding things difficult at the moment. I can promise we will do everything we can to improve.”
Final Whistle: The Road Ahead
Millwall’s play-off dreams alive after Ivanovic-inspired victory – this result sets up a thrilling climax to the Championship season. With two games remaining, the Lions have shown they have the quality and character to complete a remarkable late surge.
For more in-depth Championship analysis and exclusive insights, stay tuned to Marvelbet – your home for cutting-edge football coverage. Will Millwall complete their great escape? Share your predictions in the comments below!
