Millwall vs Swansea Prediction & Match Preview – Sunday, 4 January

Millwall will host Swansea at The Den this Sunday, 4 January, in what promises to be an intriguing Championship clash. Both teams are eager to make a significant impact in the league, with Millwall aiming to capitalise on their home advantage. This fixture is crucial for both sides as they look to climb the Championship standings and secure a favourable position as the season progresses.

Swansea, travelling from Wales, will be keen to challenge Millwall on their home turf. The Den is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, and Millwall will hope to use this to their advantage. With both teams having plenty to play for, this encounter could prove pivotal in shaping their respective campaigns. Fans can expect a competitive and closely contested match as these two sides meet in the heart of the Championship action.

Millwall vs Swansea Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Under 2.5 Goals in Millwall vs Swansea City	1.7

Given the context of both teams’ recent performances and their historical encounters, our recommended betting tip is Under 2.5 Goals. This reflects the strengths and weaknesses of both sides, with Swansea’s modest average of 1.1 goals conceded per match and Millwall’s current injury woes likely resulting in a low-scoring game.

• Two of the last three meetings between these teams have seen two goals or fewer, indicating a pattern of low-scoring matches.
• Millwall’s injury list, particularly in attacking positions, suggests they will struggle to create many scoring opportunities.
• Swansea’s defensive setup and average of 1.1 goals conceded per match support the likelihood of a tight, low-scoring affair.

Betting Odds

Millwall step onto their home turf at The Den as favourites with odds of 2.16, but don’t count Swansea out just yet. With the Swans priced at 3.41, there’s a tempting opportunity for those backing an away upset. The draw is also in play at 3.17, reflecting the tight nature of this Championship clash.

Betting Tip	Odds
Millwall to win	2.16
Draw	3.17
Swansea to win	3.41

For those looking at alternative markets, both teams have shown a knack for finding the net, making the ‘both teams to score’ market worth considering. With Millwall’s home advantage and Swansea’s unpredictable form, this match promises to be an intriguing betting prospect.

Millwall Analysis & Recent Performance

Millwall’s recent form has seen them secure one win, two draws, and two losses across their last five matches, translating to a win ratio of 20%. This period included a commendable 2-1 victory against Bristol City and a goalless draw against Southampton. However, they suffered defeats to Blackburn (0-2) and Hull (1-3), indicating some inconsistency in performance.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Southampton	Millwall	0 – 0 (Draw)	Championship	1 Jan 2026
Millwall	Bristol City	2 – 1 (Win)	Championship	29 Dec 2025
Millwall	Ipswich	0 – 0 (Draw)	Championship	26 Dec 2025
Blackburn	Millwall	2 – 0 (Loss)	Championship	20 Dec 2025
Millwall	Hull	1 – 3 (Loss)	Championship	13 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• DWDLL

Millwall’s attack has been relatively subdued, averaging only 0.60 goals per match in their last five outings. They have managed to score in just two of these games, while their defence has conceded an average of 1.20 goals per match, managing two clean sheets. This reflects a balanced but not overly robust defensive setup. At home, their performance improves significantly, with a 60% win ratio over five matches, suggesting a stronger presence at The Den.

Millwall Suspensions & Injuries

Millwall face significant challenges with several key injuries affecting their squad depth and tactical options. Lukas Jensen’s Achilles tendon injury, alongside Benicio Baker and Josh Coburn’s groin and hip injuries respectively, leaves gaps in the defensive and attacking setups. Will Smallbone’s hamstring issue and Derek Mazou-Sacko’s knee injury further strain Millwall’s midfield options, impacting their ability to maintain possession and dictate play.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Lukas Jensen	Achilles tendon injury	Mid March 2026
Benicio Baker	Groin injury	Mid January 2026
Massimo Luongo	Cruciate ligament injury	Early July 2026
Josh Coburn	Hip injury	Mid January 2026
Will Smallbone	Hamstring injury	Late January 2026
Derek Mazou-Sacko	Knee injury	Mid January 2026
Luke Cundle	Shoulder injury	Early February 2026
Casper de Norre	Calf injury	Mid January 2026
Daniel Kelly	Hamstring injury	Mid January 2026
Mihailo Ivanovic	Knock injury	Doubtful

Alex Neil must consider tactical adjustments to compensate for these absences. The expected return of some players like Benicio Baker and Josh Coburn in mid-January offers some relief, but until then, Millwall will likely rely on squad players to fill these critical roles. This could mean a shift to a more conservative formation, focusing on defensive solidity to compensate for missing attacking options.

With Mihailo Ivanovic doubtful due to a knock, the uncertainty around his availability adds another layer of complexity. The lack of suspensions is a slight positive, but the injury list suggests Millwall might struggle to maintain their competitive edge against Swansea, potentially influencing betting odds in favour of the visitors.

Millwall Key Players

Millwall’s attacking threat is spearheaded by Femi Azeez, the team’s top scorer with 6 goals this season. Azeez’s ability to find space and his clinical finishing make him a constant danger to any defence. His partnership with Camiel Neghli and Thierno Ballo in the forward line could be pivotal in breaking down Swansea’s backline. The dynamic play of Azeez is supported by the creative midfield presence of Macaulay Langstaff, who orchestrates the team’s transitions from defence to attack.

Defensively, Millwall rely on the solid performances of Jake Cooper and Caleb Taylor, whose defensive solidity and aerial prowess are crucial for maintaining the team’s shape. Cooper’s leadership at the back helps organise the team defensively, while Taylor’s tackling and interception skills will be vital in thwarting Swansea’s attacking advances. The tactical impact of these players is significant, as they provide a balanced approach that supports both offensive and defensive plays.

Expected lineup for Millwall

• Goalkeeper: Max Crocombe
• Defenders: Tristan Crama, Caleb Taylor, Jake Cooper, Zak Sturge
• Midfielders: Macaulay Langstaff, Ryan Leonard, Alfie Doughty
• Forwards: Camiel Neghli, Thierno Ballo, Femi Azeez

Millwall Tactics and Formation

Millwall Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-5-1
• Key Forward: Femi Azeez
• Midfield Hub: Ryan Leonard and Alfie Doughty
• Defensive Solidity: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Compact defensive setup and counter-attacking potential.

Millwall’s 4-5-1 formation provides a balanced approach, emphasising defensive solidity while allowing for quick transitions. Ryan Leonard and Alfie Doughty anchor the midfield, providing both defensive coverage and the ability to initiate counter-attacks. This setup helps maintain stability, particularly against possession-heavy teams.

Defensively, Millwall’s backline, featuring Tristan Crama and Jake Cooper, is designed to absorb pressure and maintain a compact shape. Their recent record of two clean sheets in the last five matches underscores their ability to frustrate opponents and limit scoring opportunities.

Offensively, the team relies on Femi Azeez, their top scorer, to capitalise on counter-attacks. His pace and positioning make him a constant threat, especially when the team transitions quickly from defence to attack. This strategy is crucial in breaking down opposition defences and creating goal-scoring opportunities.

Swansea Analysis & Recent Performance

Swansea have experienced a mixed bag of results in their recent form, registering three wins and two losses in their last five matches. Notably, they secured a narrow 1-0 victory against West Bromwich in their last fixture, showcasing their defensive resilience.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Swansea	West Brom	1 – 0 (Win)	Championship	Jan 1, 2026
Oxford	Swansea	0 – 1 (Win)	Championship	Dec 29, 2025
Coventry	Swansea	1 – 0 (Loss)	Championship	Dec 26, 2025
Swansea	Wrexham	2 – 1 (Win)	Championship	Dec 19, 2025
Stoke	Swansea	2 – 1 (Loss)	Championship	Dec 13, 2025

Recent Form:
Swansea have averaged 1.00 goal per match in their last five fixtures while conceding 0.80 on average, indicating a decent defensive setup. They have achieved two clean sheets in this period, which highlights their ability to maintain defensive solidity under pressure. However, Swansea’s away form remains a concern, as they have suffered four losses in their last five away games, managing just one win. Their away win ratio stands at a challenging 20%.

Key Statistics:
Offensively, Zan Vipotnik has been pivotal, leading as the top scorer with 10 goals this season. Swansea have scored in eight out of their last ten games, which suggests a consistent attacking threat. Nonetheless, their overall scoring average of 1.04 goals per game this season underlines the need for increased offensive output.

League Position & Dynamics:

• WWLWL

Currently positioned 16th in the Championship with 32 points, Swansea’s mid-lower table standing points to a season of fluctuating performances. Their ability to convert home performances into away successes could be instrumental in climbing the table.

Swansea Suspensions & Injuries

Swansea face a challenging situation with several key players sidelined due to injuries. Adam Idah and Liam Cullen, both dealing with muscle injuries, are expected to return by late January 2026. Their absence could significantly affect Swansea’s attacking options, as both have been instrumental in providing depth and versatility in the forward line. The hamstring injury to Idah, in particular, removes a physical presence up front, which might see Swansea struggle in aerial duels and hold-up play.

The foot injury to Josh Key is another blow, as he has been a regular feature in the defensive lineup. His absence means a reshuffle at the back, possibly leading to a tactical adjustment from coach Vítor Matos, who may have to rely on less experienced players to fill the gap. With Ronald Pereira also nursing a minor knock, his availability remains uncertain, which could further deplete Swansea’s midfield strength.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Adam Idah	Hamstring injury	Late January 2026
Liam Cullen	Calf injury	Late January 2026
Ronald	Knock	Few days
Josh Key	Foot injury	Late January 2026

These injuries might prompt a shift in Swansea’s tactical approach, potentially leaning towards a more conservative style to mitigate the risk at the back and compensate for the lack of attacking depth. The betting markets might react to these developments by adjusting odds in favour of Millwall, given Swansea’s weakened squad and the tactical adjustments they are likely to implement.

Swansea Key Players

Swansea’s attacking prowess will be spearheaded by their top scorer, Zan Vipotnik, who has scored 10 goals this season. Vipotnik’s clinical finishing and ability to find space in the opposition’s penalty area make him a constant threat. His partnership with Malick Yalcouye in the forward line will be pivotal as they aim to penetrate Millwall’s defence. Yalcouye’s pace and agility complement Vipotnik’s positioning, providing a dynamic element to Swansea’s attack.

In midfield, the creative influence of Gonçalo Franco will be essential. Franco’s vision and passing range can dictate the tempo of the game, and his ability to link up play between the defence and attack can open up opportunities for the forwards. Defensively, Ben Cabango’s leadership and aerial strength will be critical in organising the backline and dealing with Millwall’s set-piece threats.

Expected lineup for Swansea:

• Goalkeeper: Lawrence Vigouroux
• Defenders: Sam Parker, Ben Cabango, Cameron Burgess, Josh Tymon
• Midfielders: Ethan Galbraith, Gonçalo Franco, Marko Stamenic
• Forwards: Malick Yalcouye, Zeidane Inoussa, Melker Widell

Swansea Tactics and Formation

Swansea Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Expected 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Melker Widell
• Midfield Core: Gonçalo Franco and Marko Stamenic
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Strong possession game and disciplined defensive transitions.

Swansea’s recent performances have been characterised by a solid 4-2-3-1 formation, allowing them to maintain control in midfield while providing flexibility in attack. With Gonçalo Franco and Marko Stamenic anchoring the midfield, Swansea balance defensive resilience with creative outlets.

Defensively, the backline led by Ben Cabango and Cameron Burgess has shown effectiveness, contributing to their two clean sheets in the last five matches. The full-backs, Josh Key and Josh Tymon, play crucial roles in both defensive duties and supporting wide attacks.

Offensively, Swansea focus on maintaining possession and creating opportunities through patient build-up play. Melker Widell, as the key forward, is instrumental in converting these chances, supported by the wingers Ronald Pereira and Zeidane Inoussa. This approach, combined with disciplined defensive transitions, has been pivotal in their recent victories.

Millwall vs Swansea Head-to-Head Record

In their last 24 encounters, Swansea have a slight edge with 9 wins compared to Millwall’s 8, while 7 matches have ended in a draw. The most recent meeting saw a 1-1 draw at Swansea’s ground in the Championship. When these two met at The Den last April, Millwall secured a narrow 1-0 victory, showing their capability to edge out tight games at home.

The Championship has been the battleground for these clashes, with Millwall often proving resilient on their home turf. However, Swansea’s ability to score more goals overall, 28 to Millwall’s 22, indicates they can be a threat away as well.

Home Team	Away Team	Score	Competition	Date
Swansea City	Millwall	1 – 1	Championship	27/09/2025
Millwall	Swansea City	1 – 0	Championship	26/04/2025
Swansea City	Millwall	0 – 1	Championship	26/10/2024
Swansea City	Millwall	0 – 1	Championship	04/05/2024
Millwall	Swansea City	0 – 3	Championship	30/09/2023