Championship 2025/2026: Stoke City-Millwall, the likely lineups.

While the Championship season is coming to an end, the bet365 Stadium match between Stoke City and Millwall, scheduled for 8:45 p.m., pits two teams with opposing motivations against each other. If the hosts find themselves quietly in mid-table, the guests are in the midst of a race for direct promotion, as they are momentarily tied on points with second. Stoke City comes to this challenge with a mixed performance with only one win in the last five matches, but confident of not relegating having now secured safety. In contrast, Millwall is one of the most in-form teams in the tournament, undefeated in their last 7 away matches and fresh off a streak of results that sees them fighting point by point for the jump to the Premier League.

Robins must deal with a not inconsiderable defensive emergency, given the absences of Wilmot and Gibson. BazunuBazunuis back between the posts, however, protected by a four-man line where Lawal and the experience of Cresswell stand out. In the midfield Baker and Pearson will act as shields, while fantasy is entrusted to the trio Joon-ho, Cisse and Manhoef. Up front, Gallagher will act as the sole offensive reference to try to unhinge the opponent’s defense.

Technician Alex Neil fields a very solid team. In goal is Pattersonwith the central pair Taylor-Cooper leading the department. The young Mazou-Sacko will flank De Norre in the middle of the field to give muscle and run. On the three-quarter will act Ballo, Neghli and Azeez, with the task of supplying Josh Coburn’s only offensive terminal.

Stoke City-Millwall, likely lineups

Stoke City (4-2-3-1):Bazunu; Bocat, Cresswell, Lawal, Thomas; Baker, Pearson; Joon-ho, Cisse, Manhoef; Gallagher. All. Robins Mark.

Millwall (4-2-3-1):Patterson; Crama, Taylor, Cooper, Sturge; De Norre, Mazou-Sacko; Ballo, Neghli, Azeez; Cobun. All. Neil Alex.