Both teams are looking to end their losing streak: Millwall vs Bolton prediction
The fifth-round Championship match between Millwall and Bolton will take place on 5 September at The Den. The hosts sit 10th, the visitors are 15th, and both teams head into the fixture after two consecutive defeats.
Millwall: sharp decline after a confident start
Alex Neil's side began the season unbeaten and looked reliable defensively in their opening matches. However, heavy setbacks followed — a 5-1 defeat to Southampton and a 3-0 home loss against Wrexham.
Particularly concerning is the fact that before those two matches, Millwall had not conceded more than two goals in a game since February. The manager now needs to stabilise the defence quickly and restore the team's confidence.
Bolton: two defeats after collecting four points at the start
Steven Schumacher's side began the league campaign with a 2-1 victory over Preston and a 0-0 draw with QPR. Those results were followed by defeats to Lincoln 1-0 and Sheffield United 3-2.
The latest setback was especially frustrating: Bolton led 2-1 but failed to hold on to their advantage. The squad also underwent major changes during the summer, and the coaching staff still need time to build understanding between the many new arrivals.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Millwall have lost their last two matches by an aggregate score of 8-1.
- Bolton have also suffered two consecutive defeats.
- Before their current slump, Millwall had not conceded more than two goals in a single match since 21 February.
The hosts can end their poor run: Millwall vs Bolton prediction
Both teams are going through a difficult spell, although Millwall had been on a more convincing run before the last two rounds. At home, Neil's side should play more aggressively and look to regain control of the game quickly.
Bolton are capable of causing problems and have already shown that they can score in difficult away matches. Nevertheless, the hosts retain a slight edge and could take advantage of their opponents' defensive weaknesses.
