It was one-way traffic at The Den on January 13, 2025, as Millwall cruised to a 3-0 victory over Dagenham & Redbridge to progress to the fourth round of the FA Cup. This match was particularly significant for Millwall, who aimed to capitalize on their status as Championship contenders against their National League opponents.
The game kicked off with Millwall touted as overwhelming favorites. Manager Alex Neil had bolstered his squad by naming several returning players, including Jake Cooper from injury, aiming to secure their first win under his management.
Despite Mounting pressure from Millwall early on, the match started slowly, with Dagenham & Redbridge frustrating their opponents for much of the first half. The visitors managed only 30% possession and were largely pinned back, yet they held firm against several attempts from Millwall until the 30th minute. It was Mihailo Ivanović who broke the deadlock with an extraordinary goal. After a scramble inside the box, Ivanović found himself on his hands and knees, managing to nudge the ball over the goal line with his head amid defensive chaos.
After the goal, Millwall dominated possession, but it wasn't until the second half when they finally asserted their superiority. Dagenham's solid defense kept them at bay for the time being, but fatigue soon became evident as the visitors struggled to contain the relentless attacks from Millwall. Casper De Norre scored the second goal after expertly meeting a cross to volley the ball home.
The finishing touches came from substitute Ra’ess Bangura-Williams, who took just minutes after coming off the bench to find the net and round off the victory. His solo effort was impressive, as he weaved past defender Tom Eastman before sliding the ball home, capping off what was already a very special evening for the young player making his professional debut.
Speaking after the match, Millwall manager Alex Neil expressed satisfaction with the performance, stating, "I thought it was an enjoyable game for us, I thought the players moved the ball around really well. We scored three goals, probably should have scored more." This victory improves Millwall's confidence after struggling for form earlier this season.
On the opposing side, Dagenham's interim manager Lewis Young reflected on the challenges they faced and acknowledged the difference between the two sides. "We’ve come to a quality team and their class has shown. Unfortunately, we didn’t come out on top," he remarked. His players exhibited moments of resilience, but they lacked the cutting edge required at this level.
After the full-time whistle blew, Millwall’s focus shifted to their next challenge, as they prepared to face Leeds United. There is palpable excitement around the club as they anticipate this encounter, bringing along the motivation of potentially upsetting one of the championship leaders.
Meanwhile, for Dagenham & Redbridge, this match serves as a learning experience. "I just saw the ball staying there and was saying ‘for this club, I would throw myself [at it] and shoot it with my head. I tried and succeeded,'" Ivanović reflected on his memorable goal. While they may not have achieved the fairytale results they hoped for, the match offers valuable insight and experience against top-tier opposition.
With this win, Millwall has demonstrated their capabilities, and they will look to build on this momentum as they advance through the FA Cup. They will carry this form on to Elland Road with hopes of upsetting the odds once again.