Queens Park Rangers 1-2 Millwall: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Coral's post-match review of Queens Park Rangers 1-2 Millwall in the Championship on Saturday, 18 October 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Millwall secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road, a result that might not have been surprising given their recent form. The Lions came into the match on the back of a strong run, having won three of their last five games, including a convincing 3-0 win against West Bromwich Albion. In contrast, QPR had been inconsistent, with their most recent result before this match being a 2-1 win against Bristol City. The game's outcome was determined by Millwall's ability to score twice in the first half, showcasing their clinical edge despite QPR's late rally with a goal in the 85th minute.

The match was a testament to Millwall's resilience and tactical nous, as they managed to hold off a spirited QPR side that dominated possession. QPR's late goal, while not enough to salvage a point, highlighted their fighting spirit and perhaps a missed opportunity to push harder earlier in the game. For Millwall, this win extends their positive run and solidifies their position in the top half of the Championship table. Femi Azeez was a standout performer for the visitors, contributing significantly to their victory.

The statistics from the match between Queens Park Rangers and Millwall provide an interesting contrast to the final scoreline. QPR enjoyed a significant advantage in possession, holding 57% of the ball compared to Millwall's 43%. They also had more corners, with eight to Millwall's three, suggesting a more attacking approach. However, Millwall's efficiency in front of goal and their higher successful dribble percentage of 50% compared to QPR's 17% were crucial factors in securing the win. The higher number of yellow cards for Millwall (four) compared to QPR's two indicates a more physical approach from the visitors.

Despite QPR's dominance in possession and set-piece opportunities, Millwall's ability to convert their chances and their effectiveness in dribbling past opponents were decisive. The disparity in successful dribbles highlights Millwall's directness and perhaps a more effective use of the ball when in possession. These statistics underline the importance of quality over quantity in football, as Millwall made the most of their opportunities to clinch the victory.

The key moments of the match were defined by Millwall's early goals, which set the tone for the rest of the game. In the 36th minute, Millwall took the lead, a crucial moment that put QPR on the back foot. Just before halftime, in the 45th minute, Millwall doubled their lead, a goal that seemed to seal the game early on. These two strikes in quick succession were pivotal, as they forced QPR to chase the game for the entire second half.

QPR's response came late in the game, with a goal in the 85th minute that injected some hope into their efforts. However, despite their late surge, they were unable to find an equaliser. The timing of Millwall's goals was significant, as it allowed them to control the game's tempo and manage the result effectively. QPR's late goal, while a positive note, ultimately served as a reminder of what could have been had they been more clinical earlier in the match.

Queens Park Rangers lined up in a 4-4-2 formation, with Paul Nardi in goal and a backline consisting of Jimmy Dunne, Liam Morrison, Steve Cook, and Rhys Norrington-Davies. The midfield was anchored by Harvey Vale and Jonathan Varane, with Nicolas Madsen and Paul Patrick Smyth providing width. Up front, Richard Kone and Michael Frey led the line. The lineup was fairly standard, with no major surprises in the starting XI.

The impact of substitutions was notable, with QPR making five changes throughout the game. These substitutions were likely aimed at injecting fresh legs and changing the dynamics of the match, especially after going two goals down. Despite the late goal from the bench, the changes were not enough to overturn the deficit. The performance of the starting lineup, particularly in the first half, left much to be desired, as they struggled to contain Millwall's attacking threat.

Millwall opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Max Crocombe between the posts and a defensive line of Ryan Leonard, Tristan Crama, Jake Cooper, and Zak Sturge. The midfield duo of Massimo Luongo and Billy Mitchell provided stability, while Femi Azeez, Will Smallbone, and Thierno Ballo supported the lone striker, Mihailo Ivanovic. The lineup was well-balanced, with a focus on both defensive solidity and attacking threat.

The impact of Millwall's lineup was evident in their performance, particularly in the first half where they scored twice. Femi Azeez stood out, contributing significantly to the team's success. The five substitutions made by Millwall were likely aimed at maintaining their lead and managing the game's closing stages effectively. The starting XI's performance, especially in the first half, was crucial in securing the victory, showcasing their ability to execute their game plan effectively.

Femi Azeez has been named Coral's Man of the Match for his standout performance in Millwall's 2-1 victory over Queens Park Rangers. Azeez scored a crucial goal, which was the difference in the match, demonstrating his ability to impact the game decisively. Despite not registering any assists, big chances created, or key passes, his goal was a testament to his clinical finishing and composure in front of goal. Azeez's contribution was pivotal in securing the three points for Millwall.

Recent Championship matches:

• Loss: 1-2 vs Millwall (H)
• Win: 2-1 vs Bristol City (A)
• Draw: 0-0 vs Oxford United (H)
• Draw: 1-1 vs Sheffield Wednesday (A)
• Win: 1-0 vs Stoke City (H)

Recent Championship matches:

• Win: 2-1 vs Queens Park Rangers (A)
• Win: 3-0 vs West Bromwich Albion (H)
• Loss: 0-4 vs Coventry City (H)
• Draw: 1-1 vs Swansea City (A)
• Win: 1-0 vs Watford (H)

QPR now sit in 11th place with 15 points, and their next challenge is a home game against Swansea City, who are in 13th with 13 points, on October 22, 2025 at 19:45. Following this defeat, QPR will need to regroup and focus on improving their defensive solidity and clinical finishing to secure a positive result against Swansea.

Millwall have climbed to 5th place with 17 points, and they will face a tough test against 3rd-placed Stoke City, who have 18 points, on October 21, 2025 at 19:45. This victory will boost their confidence as they prepare to take on a strong Stoke side, and they will look to maintain their momentum and continue their push for a top-six finish.

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