Millwall Leapfrogs QPR to Regain Second Spot in Championship

A blistering start from Millwall propelled them to a 2-0 victory over QPR in the Sky Bet Championship at the Den, elevating them back to second place in the standings. Following a slump with only one win from their previous five matches, the Lions rediscovered their form with early goals from Derek Mazou-Sacko and Camiel Neghli, allowing them to dictate the pace of the London derby from the outset. Alex Neil's team moved a point ahead of Ipswich, who are set to host fellow promotion contenders Middlesbrough on Sunday, as the battle for a spot in the Premier League next season intensifies. Millwall took the lead after just three minutes when Mazou-Sacko capitalized on a loose ball from Femi Azeez's low cross, firing a powerful finish past QPR goalkeeper Joe Walsh from outside the area. This marked the French midfielder's first goal for the club and helped alleviate the nerves of the home supporters, who had witnessed their team lose their last two home games. The hosts maintained their dominance, with numerous opportunities to extend their lead, including a headed chance by Tristan Crama and a shot from Neghli that narrowly missed the target. Millwall's relentless pressure paid off in the 17th minute when Neghli scored his first goal, expertly bending a shot into the far corner after being set up by Mazou-Sacko. The Lions continued to create scoring opportunities, with Josh Coburn's header being tipped over by Walsh and Zak Sturge shooting into the side netting. QPR manager Julien Stephan made four substitutions at halftime, and his team showed improvement in the second half, with Rumarn Burrell heading wide from a cross and Ilias Chair, who made his return from injury, coming close with a low shot from outside the area. Millwall did not replicate their first-half attacking prowess but came close to a third goal when Coburn met Azeez's cross, only to be denied by Walsh's leg save. QPR did not register a shot on target until the 89th minute, when Nikolas Madsen's effort from 25 yards was saved by Millwall goalkeeper Anthony Patterson. Post-match, Millwall's Alex Neil expressed satisfaction with his team's aggressive start, which he believed was crucial in securing the win. QPR's Julien Stephan acknowledged his team's lack of intensity in the first half and the need to improve their competitiveness, particularly in winning duels and picking up second balls.