Current form and recent results

Millwall arrive at The Den after a confidence‑boosting 1-0 win over Sheffield United at Bramall Lane. Luke Cundle’s goal came just before the half‑hour mark, and the Lions held on despite possessing only 38% of the ball. That victory lifted Alex Neil’s side to three wins in four matches across all competitions, including a tidy Caraboo Cup first‑round triumph over Newport County.

Coventry City, meanwhile, are riding a wave of momentum that few could have anticipated. Haji Wright, Jack Rudoni and Victor Torp each bagged a brace in a spectacular 7-1 demolition of QPR, while Brandon Thomas‑Asante added the seventh. The Sky Blues sit third in the Championship table and remain unbeaten in the 2025/26 campaign. Their cup run began with a narrow win over Luton Town, thanks to Ellis Simms.

Key players and tactical angles

For Millwall, the midfield battle will be crucial. Neil tends to load his side with a compact 4-2-3-1, relying on quick transitions and the wing‑back’s ability to stretch play. Cundle’s movement off the ball makes him a constant threat, while the defensive unit, anchored by veteran centre‑backs, will need to stay disciplined against Coventry’s fast‑paced attack.

Coventry’s manager, Frank Lampard, favours an attacking 4-3-3 that allows his front three to roam. Wright’s pace and eye for goal make him the focal point, while Rudoni’s creativity from midfield provides the supply line. Torp’s energy on the wing and Thomas‑Asante’s knack for getting into the box give Lampard multiple avenues to breach Millwall’s defense.

Both teams have shown they can score in bursts, but the question is who can control the tempo. Millwall’s low possession against Sheffield United suggests they will sit deeper and look to hit on the break. Coventry, having dominated possession in their 7-1 win, will probably try to dictate play early, pressing high and forcing errors.

Head‑to‑head statistics offer little comfort to either side. In the last five encounters, each team has won twice with one draw, highlighting the close nature of this rivalry.

Considering the recent form, squad depth, and tactical set‑ups, the match is poised to be a tight affair. Millwall’s disciplined defensive shape could frustrate Coventry’s fluid attack, but the Sky Blues’ firepower cannot be ignored.

Millwall vs Coventry City Carabao Cup prediction: A narrow win for Coventry seems most likely, perhaps a 2-1 scoreline, as their attacking trio finds the net while Millwall remains resilient at home.