Dapo Afolayan’s two‑goal performance proved decisive as Blackburn Rovers claimed a vital 3‑1 victory against Millwall at a restless Ewood Park. Even before the opening whistle, the home supporters could already be heard chanting “Venky’s out,” reflecting the club’s ongoing unrest. Yet the 28‑year‑old striker, who celebrated his birthday just a few days earlier, quickly gave the fans something to celebrate.
In the 41st minute he produced a clever, improvised flick that sent the ball into the net, giving Blackburn the early lead. Six minutes after the restart, Millwall levelled the score when Lydon Dykes calmly converted a penalty, but Blackburn responded almost immediately.
Around the hour‑mark Afolayan unleashed a powerful strike from the edge of the box, restoring the lead and putting the visitors on the back foot. The Rovers then managed the final stages of the match with composure, and a late substitute appearance by Andri Guðjohnsen sealed the win.
Guðjohnsen broke away in stoppage time, finding space and tapping the ball home to end Blackburn’s four‑game winless streak. For Millwall, this defeat marked their third loss in four league games, and they will rue the missed opportunity when Dykes’ header drifted wide midway through the first half.
The Lions began the contest more confidently, but their only clear chance came in the 11th minute when Balázs Tóth denied Camiel Neghli’s low volley. Later, Todd Cantwell’s quick shot forced Millwall keeper Max Crocombe into a reflex save, but the Rovers were already ahead.
The match also featured a moment of controversy when Sam Morsy was given too much space just inside the penalty area. His shot lacked direction, but Afolayan’s inventive flick redirected the ball into the net from close range, delivering his first league goal for Blackburn. Shortly after, substitute Gady Beyuku made a disastrous start by pulling down Tairyk Arconte in the box after the attacker had cut in from the left.
Dykes stepped up to take the penalty and, without hesitation, slotted his third of the season into the centre of the net. Blackburn’s response came in the 58th minute. Afolayan, given time and space after a quick restart, surged forward from the centre circle, evaded a defender and unleashed a left‑footed shot from about 18 yards that found the bottom corner.
Millwall thought they had equalised when Arconte headed the ball into the net from a long throw, but the referee spotted a foul in the ensuing melee and disallowed the goal. The visitors continued to press, creating chances primarily through their full‑backs. Zak Sturge’s low cross found Arconte, who could only manage a wide deflection, while Mark Sykes delivered a superb right‑wing cross that Dykes headed just over the bar from close range.
Arconte threatened again in the 73rd minute, turning defender Tom Atcheson inside‑out and sprinting into the box, only to see his effort deflected over by Blackburn’s Hayden Carter. Tony Mowbray’s side held firm, repelling the Millwall attacks and delivering a final blow on the counter‑attack. Guðjohnsen, after shielding the ball, released Jayden Fevrier, who squared the ball back to the Icelandic striker. Guðjohnsen then calmly slotted his third goal of the season into the bottom corner, sealing the win.
After the match, Blackburn manager Tony Mowbray praised Afolayan’s qualities, recalling his time at Bolton and describing him as “direct, positive and aggressive.” He highlighted the youngster’s intelligence and confidence, noting that Afolayan always has an opinion and is quick to respond to criticism, which helps him improve. Mowbray added that while Afolayan still has areas to develop, his intelligence offers plenty of scope for growth, especially in the left‑wing position that the team is looking to strengthen. Millwall’s boss Alex Neil commented on a disallowed goal, explaining that the fourth official had indicated the decision was for Cooper holding the ball, a call he found surprising.
He admitted the decision was soft and that moments such as these decide matches. Neil also reflected on the overall quality of the game, stating that neither side dominated, but Blackburn were more clinical in key moments, a factor that often makes the difference at this level. He concluded by acknowledging that while Millwall have been strong in both boxes over the past 19‑20 months, they fell short on the day.
The win provides Blackburn with a much‑needed boost, ending a run of four games without a victory and offering a platform to build on as the Championship season progresses. Meanwhile, Millwall will need to regroup quickly, addressing the missed chances and defensive lapses that cost them dearly in this tightly contested encounter. For fans wanting to stay updated, the match highlights are available to watch for free, and the EFL offers a mobile streaming option for those who prefer to follow the action on their phones.
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