Hull City became the first team to book their place in the Championship playoff final after a 2-0 victory over Millwall at The Den, securing a 2-0 aggregate win. The Tigers will now face either Southampton or Middlesbrough at Wembley for a chance to return to the Premier League for the first time since 2017.
First Half: Chances at Both Ends
After a goalless first leg at the MKM Stadium, the early stages of the second leg produced little goalmouth action. Millwall began to apply pressure just before the 20-minute mark. Camiel Neghli kept a deep cross alive, causing problems for Hull goalkeeper Ivor Pandur. The ball fell to Thierno Ballo, whose goal-bound effort was cleared off the line by Kyle Joseph.
Hull's approach involved getting balls into the box from wide areas. Ten minutes before half-time, Ryan Giles' pinpoint cross found Oli McBurnie, but Millwall keeper Anthony Patterson made a brilliant save to tip the ball over the bar.
Second Half: Belloumi and Gelhardt Strike
McBurnie went close again two minutes after the restart, making a late burst into the six-yard box after Regan Slater found space. His effort seemed destined for the net until Tristan Crama cleared off the line.
Millwall introduced Mihailo Ivanovic in an attacking move, but gaps opened up at the back. Hull's Kyle Joseph limped off at half-time, replaced by Mohamed Belloumi. The Algerian took time to settle but broke the deadlock in style, curling into the far corner after being given space by Millwall's defence.
Hull could have doubled their lead when Barry Bannan's loose pass was intercepted, but Jake Cooper deflected Slater's effort behind. Ivanovic missed a great chance to equalise, heading over the bar. With 11 minutes remaining, substitute Joe Gelhardt sealed the win, latching onto a counter-attack and seeing his low drive squirm through Patterson's hands.
What's Next?
Hull City will face either Southampton or Middlesbrough in the playoff final at Wembley. The match will determine who joins the Premier League next season.
