Millwall vs Sheffield United Prediction, Match Preview, Saturday, 31 January

Millwall are set to face Sheffield United in an intriguing Championship clash at The Den on Saturday, 31 January. Both teams are vying for crucial points as they navigate the competitive landscape of the league. Millwall, playing at home, will look to use their familiarity with The Den to secure a win against a resilient Sheffield United side.

This fixture is significant as both Millwall and Sheffield United are pushing for a strong finish in the Championship standings. The Den will be buzzing with anticipation as fans gather to witness this encounter. With both teams having much at stake, this match promises to deliver an intense battle on the pitch.

Millwall vs Sheffield United Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Millwall to Win	2.47

Given the current form and historical dominance, our recommended betting tip is a Millwall win. Millwall have showcased their defensive solidity and ability to secure results at home, making them a strong pick in this matchup.

• Millwall have won every meeting between the two sides over the past two seasons, including two clean-sheet wins in 2025.
• Millwall have scored first in 71% of their last 7 matches against Sheffield United, indicating their strong start in games.
• Femi Azeez’s return from injury boosts Millwall’s attacking options, further enhancing their chances of securing a home victory.

Betting Odds

Millwall enter this Championship clash as slight favourites with odds of 2.47, but Sheffield United are not far behind at 2.76. The draw is priced at 3.27, suggesting a closely contested match at The Den.

Betting Tip	Odds
Millwall to win	2.47
Draw	3.27
Sheffield United to win	2.76

Given both teams’ recent form, punters might find value in the over 2.5 goals market, as well as considering both teams to score, reflecting the competitive nature of this fixture.

Millwall Analysis & Past Performance

Millwall’s recent performances highlight a team in strong form, especially at home. Over their last five matches, they have secured three victories, including an emphatic 4-0 win over Charlton. This run reflects their strong standing in the Championship, sitting 5th with 49 points, underscoring their competitive edge this season.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Millwall	Charlton	4 – 0 (Win)	Championship	24 Jan, 2026
Coventry	Millwall	2 – 1 (Loss)	Championship	20 Jan, 2026
Watford	Millwall	0 – 2 (Win)	Championship	17 Jan, 2026
Burnley	Millwall	5 – 1 (Loss)	FA Cup	10 Jan, 2026
Millwall	Swansea	2 – 1 (Win)	Championship	4 Jan, 2026

Recent Form:

• WLWLW

Millwall’s attacking prowess has been evident, averaging 2.00 goals per match in their last five fixtures, with a total of 10 goals scored. Defensively, they have conceded 8 goals, maintaining 2 clean sheets, which suggests a need for greater consistency at the back. Their home form is particularly impressive, with a win ratio of 0.70 over the last ten home games, showcasing their dominance at The Den.

Millwall Suspensions & Injuries

Millwall face a challenging situation with several key players unavailable due to injuries, which could significantly impact their tactical approach. The absence of Lukas Jensen and Derek Mazou-Sacko, both out until mid-March, means the team will miss their defensive capabilities. In midfield, Massimo Luongo’s long-term cruciate ligament injury keeps him sidelined until July, reducing Millwall’s depth in that area.

The return of Benicio Baker, Will Smallbone, and Daniel Kelly in early February will be crucial as they offer versatility and experience in midfield, but until then, Millwall must rely on their existing squad members to fill the gaps. Thierno Ballo, expected back in a few days from illness, may offer a timely boost to the squad’s attacking options.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Lukas Jensen	Achilles tendon injury	Mid March 2026
Benicio Baker	Groin injury	Early February 2026
Massimo Luongo	Cruciate ligament injury	Early July 2026
Will Smallbone	Hamstring Injury	Early February 2026
Daniel Kelly	Hamstring Injury	Early February 2026
Thierno Ballo	Illness	Few days
Derek Mazou-Sacko	Knee injury	Mid March 2026
Joe Bryan	Broken toe	Late March 2026

With Joe Bryan also out until late March due to a broken toe, Millwall’s options on the left flank are limited. This could lead to tactical adjustments from manager Alex Neil, potentially shifting formations to accommodate the available players. The lack of suspensions is a silver lining, allowing Neil to focus on optimising his remaining squad.

These injuries are likely to influence Millwall’s match strategy against Sheffield United, potentially affecting their defensive solidity and midfield control. Betting markets might factor these absences into their odds, possibly viewing Millwall as underdogs due to their depleted squad.

Millwall Key Players

For Millwall, Femi Azeez stands out as the team’s top scorer with 7 goals this season. Azeez’s clinical finishing and ability to find space in the box make him a constant threat to opposing defences. His role as a forward is crucial, as he often leads the line and is expected to capitalise on any opportunities that arise.

In midfield, Billy Mitchell and Casper de Norre are pivotal. Mitchell’s tenacity and ball-winning skills provide a solid foundation, while de Norre’s vision and passing range can unlock defences. In defence, the towering presence of Jake Cooper offers not only defensive stability but also an aerial threat during set-pieces. These players are integral to Millwall’s tactical approach, with a focus on solid defence and quick transitions to attack.

Expected lineup for Millwall

• Goalkeeper: Max Crocombe
• Defenders: Tristan Crama, Caleb Taylor, Jake Cooper, Alfie Doughty
• Midfielders: Billy Mitchell, Casper de Norre, Camiel Neghli
• Forwards: Femi Azeez, Macaulay Langstaff, Josh Coburn

Millwall Tactics and Formation

Millwall Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Josh Coburn
• Midfield Pivot: Billy Mitchell and Casper de Norre
• Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and effective transitions

Millwall often utilise a 4-2-3-1 formation, providing a balanced approach between defence and attack. The midfield pivot of Billy Mitchell and Casper de Norre plays a crucial role in both defensive stability and initiating attacks, supporting the creative trio ahead.

Defensively, Millwall have shown resilience, achieving three clean sheets in their last five matches. The backline, led by Jake Cooper and Caleb Taylor, offers height and strength, crucial for defending set-pieces and aerial duels.

Offensively, Josh Coburn spearheads the attack, supported by wingers Femi Azeez and Macaulay Langstaff. The team’s strategy often involves pressing high and capitalising on quick transitions, exploiting spaces left by opponents.

Sheffield United Analysis & Past Performance

Sheffield United’s recent form has been inconsistent, with a record of two wins and three losses in their last five matches. Notable victories over Ipswich (3-1) and Leicester (3-1) display their offensive capabilities, yet defeats to Southampton (0-1), Charlton (0-1), and a surprising FA Cup exit to Mansfield (3-4) highlight defensive vulnerabilities.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Sheffield United	Ipswich	3 – 1 (Win)	Championship	24 Jan 2026
Southampton	Sheffield United	1 – 0 (Loss)	Championship	21 Jan 2026
Charlton	Sheffield United	1 – 0 (Loss)	Championship	17 Jan 2026
Sheffield United	Mansfield	3 – 4 (Loss)	FA Cup	11 Jan 2026
Sheffield United	Leicester	3 – 1 (Win)	Championship	1 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
Sheffield United’s attack has managed to score an average of 1.80 goals per game in the last five matches, while their defence has conceded 1.60 goals per game. Despite scoring in three out of their last five fixtures, they have failed to secure a clean sheet, indicating defensive frailties. Away from home, their form is particularly concerning, with only one victory in the last five away games, resulting in a win ratio of 0.20 on the road.

Team Dynamics:

• WLLLW

The team currently sit 17th in the Championship, with 35 points. Callum O’Hare stands out as a key player, leading as the top scorer with seven goals this season. Their recent performances suggest a need for a more robust defensive strategy, especially in away fixtures, to complement their attacking prowess.

Sheffield United Suspensions & Injuries

Sheffield United face significant challenges ahead of their clash with Millwall due to a number of suspensions and injuries. The suspension of Patrick Bamford, who is crucial to their attacking play, will force Chris Wilder to rethink his forward line, potentially giving an opportunity to others like Andre Brooks to step up. Similarly, the absence of Japhet Tanganga and Djibril Soumare due to red card suspensions will weaken their defensive options, necessitating a reshuffle at the back.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Japhet Tanganga	Red card	1	Unknown
Djibril Soumare	Red card	1	Unknown
Patrick Bamford	Yellow/red card	1	Unknown

Injuries further complicate Sheffield United’s preparations. Gustavo Hamer, who is crucial in midfield, is doubtful with a knock, and his absence would be a significant blow. Jairo Riedewald’s hamstring issue sidelines him until mid-February, reducing depth in defence, while Tyler Bindon’s illness leaves his availability uncertain, potentially impacting tactical flexibility.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Jairo Riedewald	Hamstring Injury	Mid February 2026
Tyler Bindon	Illness	Doubtful
Gustavo Hamer	Knock	Few days

These absences could influence the match against Millwall, potentially affecting the betting markets as Sheffield United’s squad depth is tested. Tactical adjustments, such as a shift in formation or playing style, might be necessary to mitigate the impact of these unavailable players.

Sheffield United Key Players

Sheffield United will be relying heavily on Callum O’Hare, their top scorer with 7 goals this season, to spearhead their attack against Millwall. O’Hare, operating primarily in midfield, has a knack for finding space and has demonstrated an impressive ability to convert chances created by his teammates. His role as a playmaker is crucial, as he not only scores but also orchestrates the team’s offensive play.

Expected lineup for Sheffield United

• Goalkeeper: Michael Cooper
• Defence: Femi Seriki, Mark McGuinness, Ben Mee, Sam McCallum
• Midfield: Sydie Peck, Tom Davies, Callum O’Hare
• Forward: Andre Brooks, Thomas Cannon, Tyrese Campbell

In the forward line, Tyrese Campbell and Thomas Cannon will be pivotal. Campbell’s pace and Cannon’s physical presence offer a dual threat that can stretch the opposition’s defence. Meanwhile, in defence, Ben Mee’s experience will be vital in organising the backline and providing stability. His leadership and aerial prowess will be essential in dealing with any aerial threats posed by Millwall. The tactical impact of these players is significant, as they collectively offer a blend of creativity, speed, and defensive solidity, making Sheffield United a formidable side in this matchup.

Sheffield United Tactics and Formation

Sheffield United Tactical Breakdown:

• Expected Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Patrick Bamford
• Midfield Pivot: Tom Davies and Sydie Peck
• Defensive Strength: Struggles with clean sheets, none in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Utilising counter-attacks and wing play

Sheffield United, under Chris Wilder, are likely to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation, providing a balance between defensive solidity and attacking potential. The midfield pivot of Tom Davies and Sydie Peck is crucial, tasked with breaking up opposition play and initiating attacks. Callum O’Hare, the team’s top scorer, plays a vital role in linking the midfield to the attack.

Offensively, the reliance on Patrick Bamford as the lone striker is evident. His ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play is vital. The wide play from Gustavo Hamer and Andre Brooks is key, providing width and delivering crosses into the box.

Defensively, they have struggled to maintain clean sheets, with none in their last five outings. The back four, including Ben Mee and Mark McGuinness, will need to be more resilient, especially in dealing with set pieces and aerial threats.

Millwall vs Sheffield United Head-to-Head Record

Millwall and Sheffield United have faced off 29 times, with Millwall slightly ahead in the head-to-head record with 13 wins to Sheffield United’s 12, and 4 matches ending in draws. The last encounter saw Millwall snatch a narrow 1-0 victory away at Bramall Lane in the Championship.

The last time these two met at The Den, Millwall came out on top with a thrilling 3-2 win in the Championship back in February 2023. However, Sheffield United did manage a 2-0 victory in an FA Cup tie earlier that year. It’s clear that both teams have had their moments, making this fixture an exciting prospect.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Sheffield United	Millwall	0 – 1	Championship	2025-08-23
Sheffield United	Millwall	0 – 1	Championship	2025-04-08
Millwall	Sheffield United	0 – 1	Championship	2024-12-11
Millwall	Sheffield United	3 – 2	Championship	2023-02-18
Millwall	Sheffield United	0 – 2	FA Cup	2023-01-07