Millwall Reclaims Second Spot in Championship with Victory Over QPR
Millwall's blistering start proved decisive as they secured a 2-0 win over QPR in the Sky Bet Championship, lifting them back into second place in the table. A recent slump in form had stalled the Lions' promotion push, but early goals from Derek Mazou-Sacko and Camiel Neghli gave them control of the London derby from the outset. With this victory, Alex Neil's side moved a point above Ipswich, who face Middlesbrough on Sunday, as the battle for a Premier League spot next season intensifies. Millwall took the lead after just three minutes when Mazou-Sacko scored his first goal for the club, powering a fine finish past QPR goalkeeper Joe Walsh. The hosts dominated the opening quarter, with Neghli doubling their lead in the 17th minute with a beautifully curled shot. Despite QPR making four half-time substitutions, Millwall continued to create chances, with Josh Coburn's header and Zak Sturge's shot testing the visitors' defense. QPR's Ilias Chair, returning from injury, came close to pulling one back with a low shot from outside the area. Millwall almost sealed a third goal when Coburn met Femi Azeez's cross, but Walsh made a crucial save with his legs. QPR finally registered a shot on target in the 89th minute, but Nikolas Madsen's effort was kept out by Millwall goalkeeper Anthony Patterson. Post-match, Millwall's Alex Neil expressed satisfaction with his team's aggressive start and their ability to manage the game effectively, while QPR's Julien Stephan acknowledged his side's lack of intensity in the first half and the need to improve their competitiveness.