Millwall spring FA Cup upset with 2-0 victory away at Championship table-toppers Leeds but match overshadowed; both clubs vow to work with police
Saturday 8 February 2025 16:54, UK
Leeds and Millwall have condemned ‘tragedy chanting’ during the Lions’ 2-0 FA Cup fourth-round victory at Elland Road.
Lions winger Femi Azeez scored twice as Alex Neil’s men caused an upset by progressing to the fifth round for the first time since 2018-19.
In-form Millwall arrived in West Yorkshire on the back of three straight league wins and proved too strong for an under-strength Leeds outfit.
But shortly after the game, Leeds issued a statement which condemned alleged chanting by some Millwall supporters relating to the murders of Whites fans Kevin Speight and Christopher Loftus before a UEFA Cup semi-final at Galatasaray in 2000.
The statement said: “During today’s FA Cup fourth round tie with Millwall, we were extremely disappointed to hear vile chants relating to football tragedies from the away section at Elland Road.
“We know the impact this has on the families of Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight, along with the whole fan base of Leeds United.
“We will work with the police and Millwall Football Club to identify those involved, whilst we will also continue our efforts with the football authorities to help eradicate these chants from the game.”
Sky Sports News understands The Football Association is aware of the matter and will be liaising with Leeds and West Yorkshire Police.
A subsequent statement from Millwall read: “We all have a duty to ensure Millwall Football Club is represented proudly and responsibly at all times.
“The club strongly condemns all forms of football tragedy abuse and is appalled to receive reports of such chanting from a minority at today’s Emirates FA Cup fixture against Leeds United.
“Both clubs have suffered tragic losses to their respective families in recent history. Chanting about this is entirely unacceptable and will not be tolerated by the club or the governing bodies.
“It has no place in football and the club will work closely with Leeds United and authorities to identify those responsible.”
When asked about the chanting, Farke said: “During the game, I was so focused that I didn’t hear [the chants].
“But in general, you know my attitude and there’s nothing more stupid than the old quote ‘football is not about life or death, it’s much more serious’.
“I think it’s a stupid quote and has nothing to do with the values of the whole football world.
“The health of human beings is always much more important than just a football game.
“I think the whole football community stands for this and always wants to back these values.
“When something really sad happens with a tragedy, normally the whole football world stands together.
“This is the value that we live as a club, and I live, and everyone I think in the football world should live.
“If someone didn’t reach those standards today – and again, I haven’t heard it – it’s important to look into this situation.”
When asked about the statement Leeds had issued, victorious Millwall counterpart Neil said: “I wasn’t aware – if I’m being honest you’re engrossed in the game.
“But if any of that went on, then I’m sure we as a club certainly wouldn’t condone that at any football ground.
“I’d imagine the club will make a statement based on that.”
Farke made 10 changes to his Championship-topping Leeds side and it showed as winger Azeez opened the scoring in the 30th minute before grabbing his second 10 minutes into the second half.
Visiting goalkeeper Liam Roberts enjoyed an outstanding game and saved a penalty from Leeds defender Pascal Struijk on the hour as Millwall won the first-ever FA Cup meeting between the sides.
Reflecting on his side’s defeat, Farke said: “Congratulations to Millwall, but we’re disappointed because we wanted to go through to the next round.
“To rotate during this busy period is necessary, but 10 changes can’t be positive or beneficial for the fluidity of your football.
“We took this decision because we played Wednesday night.”
Millwall boss Neil, meanwhile, added: “I thought we played really well.
“Leeds is the toughest place in the Championship to come, but the most pleasing thing was how we played.”
