Millwall's Promotion Push: Can They Stun Middlesbrough and Shake Up the Championship?

With just seven games left in the Championship season, Millwall finds themselves in fourth place, two points behind Middlesbrough in second. As they prepare to face Middlesbrough at the Riverside, a win could catapult them into second spot and put their promotion destiny in their own hands. A defeat or draw would likely mean a playoff spot, which would still be a significant achievement for the Lions, considering it would be their highest league finish in 32 years. Ipswich, currently in third, will be watching from the sidelines, knowing they will have two games in hand by the time they play again. For Millwall, this Good Friday match is essentially a do-or-die situation. Manager Alex Neil has made it clear that he doesn't want his team to be seen as underdogs, instead emphasizing their competitiveness and belief in their ability to win. Neil's stance is valid, given that the top two spots are currently occupied by Coventry and Middlesbrough, teams that have a combined 34 years of absence from the Premier League between them. Ipswich, with their parachute riches and squad depth, are still a formidable opponent, but it's easy to forget that they were in League One just three years ago. The upcoming changes to the playoff system and the clubs being relegated from the Premier League could significantly alter the landscape at the top of the Championship. While it's not a now-or-never situation for Millwall, this match against Middlesbrough presents a golden opportunity for them to make a statement. According to Andy Hinchcliffe, if Millwall can secure a win at the Riverside, it would blow the promotion race wide open. Middlesbrough, on the other hand, has stuttered of late, particularly at home, where they are winless in three games and have failed to score more than two goals in their last four matches. Former Boro defender Tommy Smith believes that perspective is necessary, given that the team is still in second place after 39 games. Smith thinks that the break has come at a good time for Middlesbrough to reassess and reset. One player who will be at the center of attention is Millwall striker Josh Coburn, who will be returning to the Riverside for the first time since leaving Middlesbrough. Coburn has scored four times in the Championship since his return from injury and is looking forward to the challenge. David Prutton praises Millwall's solidity and attacking prowess, saying that they can cause problems for Middlesbrough. According to Opta, Middlesbrough still has the edge in the promotion race, but a Millwall win could significantly shift the odds in their favor.