Sheffield United — Millwall : Match Preview and Prediction for August 23,2025

Sheffield United’s Dismal Start to the Season

What’s unfolding at Sheffield United? A complete meltdown at the season’s outset. The Blades are languishing at the bottom of the league table, having lost all three of their official matches. Their campaign began with a humiliating 1-4 home defeat to Bristol City, followed by an early League Cup exit against Birmingham (1-2), and concluded with a toothless performance against Swansea, resulting in a 0-1 loss.

Struggling Offensively

Their attacking prowess is particularly disheartening. In the clash against Swansea, Sheffield United’s players failed to register a single shot on target. Zero! Their Expected Goals (xG) metric stood at a mere 0.40, unequivocally demonstrating a complete lack of offensive threat. The team simply isn’t generating scoring opportunities.

Defensive Woes and Managerial Pressure

The defense is no better. Five goals conceded in just two Championship fixtures is an alarming statistic. Manager Ruben Selles is already under immense pressure, publicly stating that the summer transfer window was “not good enough.” There’s a clear lack of cohesion within the squad, which is directly impacting their performance on the field.

Emergency Defensive Signing: Ben Godfrey

The emergency loan signing of defender Ben Godfrey from Atalanta is a clear cry for help. However, let’s consider the facts: Godfrey has seen very limited action recently, with only one Serie A appearance for Atalanta and three Premier League matches for Ipswich last season. He will undoubtedly need time to regain match fitness and integrate into the team’s system, and the next match is already this Saturday.

Millwall’s Away Form and Ambition

While Millwall suffered a hefty 0-3 home defeat to Middlesbrough in the last round, home matches and away fixtures are often two very different narratives for “The Lions.” They commenced their season with a confident 2-1 away victory over Norwich City, an outcome that already signals their intent. They now stand on the verge of winning two consecutive opening away matches for the first time since the 1995-96 season.

Impressive Away Record and Tactical Approach

Their impressive away statistics speak volumes: Millwall has avoided defeat in 11 of their last 17 away encounters. This is a team that knows how to perform on the road, capable of stifling opponents and grinding out results. Even Sheffield United’s manager, Ruben Selles, acknowledges that Alex Neil’s Millwall is a highly competitive side with a solid structure, proving particularly dangerous from set-pieces.

Millwall’s Direct Style and Key Players

Millwall’s playing style is characterized by direct and physical football. This approach is precisely what could exploit Sheffield United’s currently disjointed defense. Striker Mihajlo Ivanovic, who wins an average of nearly five aerial duels per 90 minutes, could prove to be a real nightmare for the home team’s central defenders. His ability to challenge for the ball and create opportunities from seemingly nothing will be crucial.