Leeds United’s impressive seven-game unbeaten run came to an end at The Den on Wednesday night, as they fell to a 1-0 defeat against an in-form Millwall side.
The victory marked Millwall’s fourth consecutive 1-0 win and clean sheet, highlighting their recent defensive solidity.
The match saw Leeds manager Daniel Farke make a single change to his lineup, with Jayden Bogle returning from suspension to replace Sam Byram.
Despite Leeds controlling much of the possession throughout the game, they struggled to convert their dominance into clear-cut chances.
Millwall’s winning goal came through a set-piece situation, an area where Leeds showed vulnerability throughout the match. Centre-back Jake Cooper’s header found his defensive partner Japhet Tanganga, who displayed excellent technique to volley the ball into the corner of the net.
The game’s most controversial moment came just after the hour mark when Leeds thought they had found an equalizer.
A well-worked move saw Bogle deliver a cross that Dan James touched before Joel Piroe fired past Millwall goalkeeper Lukas Jensen. However, the goal was disallowed for offside, sparking debate among observers.
Sky Sports co-commentator Gary Rowett, speaking in the 68th minute, supported the officials’ decision. “He just creeps doesn’t he,” Rowett explained, suggesting that Piroe had anticipated the ball too early and was caught offside when James made contact.
However, Leeds’ social media team contested this view on X (formerly Twitter), claiming that replays indicated Piroe was actually onside when the crucial touch from James occurred.
Former Leeds defender Jon Newsome, providing commentary for BBC Radio Leeds, offered a balanced perspective on the incident.
While uncertain about the offside decision, he praised the build-up play that led to the disallowed goal, particularly highlighting Bogle’s first-time delivery into a dangerous area.
“I really liked that move because the delivery was first time, and it was exactly into the right area,” Newsome commented, adding, “I’m not sure if it was offside but I’m glad we’re creating something.”
The defeat marks a setback for Leeds’ recent good form, while Millwall’s impressive defensive record continues to grow, with this result representing their fourth straight victory by the same 1-0 scoreline.