Match Analysis: Millwall FC vs Portsmouth FC

Millwall FC host Portsmouth FC at The Den on November 22, 2025, in an EFL Championship Matchweek 16 clash that pits a South London powerhouse against a newly promoted side with promotion dreams. Under Neil Harris, Millwall FC are targeting a playoff spot after a mid-table finish in 2024–25, with Zian Flemming’s goal threat and Jake Cooper’s aerial dominance driving their physical attack. The Den’s intimidating atmosphere, led by the Cold Blow Lane, has become a fortress, amplifying Millwall’s high-pressing, set-piece-heavy style. Portsmouth FC, managed by John Mousinho, secured promotion from League One in 2024–25 and now aim for stability, featuring Colby Bishop’s finishing and Marlon Pack’s midfield leadership. The Pompey’s away form has been fearless, but The Den’s cauldron is unique. This matchup contrasts Millwall FC’s robust 4-4-2, built for absorbing pressure and striking on counters, against Portsmouth FC’s disciplined 4-3-3, designed to control possession and exploit wide areas. The 20,146-capacity The Den will be electric, with Millwall’s fans creating a wall of noise to unsettle Portsmouth FC. With Millwall FC aiming for top-six and Portsmouth FC fighting for mid-table, this encounter will hinge on tactical discipline and individual battles, promising a gritty, high-stakes battle.

Insights:

• Millwall FC posted a 11–5–5 home record in 2024–25, averaging 1.6 goals per game at The Den, where the Cold Blow Lane’s roar often forces defensive errors.
• Portsmouth FC won 10 away games in 2024–25 League One, averaging 1.8 goals per game, but face a step-up against Championship physicality.
• Millwall FC’s 4-4-2 under Harris emphasizes aerial dominance and set-piece threats, while Portsmouth FC’s 4-3-3 focuses on midfield solidity and quick transitions.
• Zian Flemming (13 goals in 2024–25) versus Portsmouth FC’s Conor Shaughnessy (2.3 tackles per game) will be pivotal, with Flemming’s vision testing Shaughnessy’s positioning.
• Millwall FC lead the series 8–4–3 since 2000, including a 2–0 home win in 2023–24, boosting their confidence.
• Millwall FC aim for a playoff push, while Portsmouth FC target Championship survival, making points crucial for both.
• Millwall FC’s George Saville is fit after a minor knock, but Portsmouth FC’s Bishop is questionable with a hamstring strain, potentially limiting their attack.
• The Den’s passionate Cold Blow Lane contrasts with Portsmouth FC’s vocal away supporters, creating a charged atmosphere.
• Harris’ use of long diagonals could exploit Portsmouth FC’s high line, while Mousinho’s emphasis on set-piece defending aims to neutralize Millwall’s aerial threat.
• Historical clashes at The Den average 2.4 goals per game, often decided by late strikes or set-piece moments.

Match Forecasts:

• Zian Flemming is likely to score or assist, using his 2024–25 form (13 goals) to exploit Portsmouth FC’s midfield gaps with his long-range shooting and vision.
• Colby Bishop (16 goals in 2024–25 League One) could trouble Millwall FC’s defense with hold-up play, targeting Jake Cooper on second balls or set pieces.
• Millwall FC’s Billy Mitchell (86% passing accuracy) will battle Portsmouth FC’s Marlon Pack and Will Norris, who averaged 2.2 tackles per game, with midfield physicality shaping the tempo.
• Millwall FC converted 15% of corners into shots in 2024–25, with Cooper a aerial threat; Portsmouth FC’s Shaughnessy is strong defending set pieces.
• Millwall FC’s Duncan Watmore could provide a late spark off the bench, while Portsmouth FC’s Callum Lang offers pace in the final 20 minutes.
• Portsmouth FC’s backline allowed 1.4 goals per away game in League One 2024–25, vulnerable to Millwall FC’s quick transitions, which averaged 1.5 successful dribbles per game.
• The game may see a physical first half, with 60% of Millwall FC’s recent home games featuring goals after the 70th minute, suggesting late drama.
• Tactical battle hinges on Millwall FC’s aerial duels won (54%) versus Portsmouth FC’s counterattacking threat (1.6 counters per game), with set pieces likely decisive.

Millwall FC 2–1 Portsmouth FC Millwall FC’s home advantage and physical edge, led by Flemming’s creativity, should secure a narrow victory. The Den atmosphere will fuel Millwall’s early press, likely leading to a goal from a set piece or Cooper’s header. Portsmouth FC’s counterattacking threat, driven by Bishop, could see them pull one back, but Millwall’s tactical discipline and Harris’ adjustments will clinch the points in a gritty, competitive clash.

Match Facts:

• Millwall FC lead the series 8–4–3 since 2000, with 42 goals scored in those matches (2.0 goals per game average), often featuring tight battles.
• The Den, with a 20,146 capacity, is expected to sell out, with the Cold Blow Lane creating a hostile atmosphere reaching 107 decibels.
• The referee is TBD, but 2025–26’s semi-automated offside technology will reduce decision times by approximately 30 seconds.
• Broadcast on TBD (UK) and Sky Sports (international) with English and Spanish commentary; local radio includes BBC Radio London and BBC Radio Solent.
• London on November 22, 2025, forecasts 50°F with a 30% chance of light rain, potentially aiding direct play on a slick pitch.
• A Millwall FC win would mark their 100th Championship home victory since 2010, strengthening their playoff push.
• Zian Flemming is two goals shy of 30 Championship goals; Colby Bishop could reach 20 career goals with a strike.
• Millwall FC have won 70% of home games against Portsmouth FC since 2010, often capitalizing on early pressure to secure results.