Millwall Football Club, founded in 1885, is one of London’s most recognised and storied football institutions. Based in South Bermondsey, the club has built its identity on strong working-class roots, a fiercely loyal fanbase, and a tradition of defying the odds. The Lions, as they are known, have developed a reputation for being one of the toughest and most determined sides in English football, consistently punching above their weight across the divisions.
Renowned for their resilience and their unmistakable chant “No one likes us, we don’t care,” Millwall’s culture is unlike any other. The club symbolises the fighting spirit of South London and represents a proud and passionate community that backs its team through every battle — win, lose, or draw.
Historic Millwall Moments
Millwall’s early years were spent as one of the leading clubs in Southern football. Though they didn’t join the Football League until 1920, their success in the Southern League and strong cup performances helped build a solid foundation. The club’s first major promotion to the Second Division came in the 1930s, and they’ve remained a mainstay in the top two divisions for much of their modern history.
One of the most significant moments in Millwall’s history came in the 1987/88 season, when the club earned promotion to the First Division (now the Premier League) for the first time. Led by a powerful team and backed by intense home support, the Lions enjoyed a memorable spell in the top flight, even topping the table briefly during the 1988/89 season.
Millwall have long been recognised as a strong cup team. Their deep runs in domestic competitions, including a major final appearance in the 21st century, have helped shape the club’s modern identity and attracted new generations of fans.
Memorable Moments
The club’s most iconic achievement came in 2004, when Millwall reached the FA Cup final for the first time in their history. Playing at the Millennium Stadium, they faced Manchester United in a memorable showcase of underdog determination. Although the Lions were beaten 3–0, the run to the final captured national attention and secured the club’s qualification for the UEFA Cup (now Europa League) — their first foray into European competition.
Another unforgettable day came in 2017, when Millwall clinched promotion to the Championship via a dramatic play-off final win over Bradford City. A late goal sealed the 1–0 victory at Wembley, sending thousands of Millwall fans into raptures and restoring the club to the second tier — a level they’ve competed at strongly in subsequent seasons.
Stadium Atmosphere
The Den, Millwall’s home since 1993, is one of the most intimidating and atmospheric grounds in English football. With a capacity of just over 20,000, it may not be the largest stadium in the capital, but it is undoubtedly one of the loudest. The close proximity of the stands to the pitch, combined with the vocal and passionate home support, creates an environment that many visiting teams find challenging.
The stadium’s location in South London and its strong links to the community add to the club’s character. On matchdays, The Den becomes a fortress where loyalty, energy, and pride are on full display — reflecting the unique bond between the club and its supporters.
Ticket Information
Millwall tickets are particularly sought after for derby matches and high-stakes league encounters. The club’s following remains among the most passionate in the country, and the demand for both home and away tickets can be strong, especially in the latter stages of the season.
SafeTicketCompare lists all available Millwall tickets, offering secure and reliable access to home and away fixtures. Whether you're a local fan or a visiting supporter seeking a raw and genuine football experience, a day at The Den is truly unforgettable.
Major Honours
Winners | Season |
Football League Third Division | 1965/66, 2000/01 |
Football League Second Division Runners-up | 1987/88 |
FA Cup Runners-up | 2003/04 |
EFL League One Play-Off Winners | 2010, 2017 |
Key Rivalries
Millwall’s most famous rivalry is with West Ham United, one of the fiercest and most historic rivalries in English football. Though league meetings have been less frequent in modern times, the rivalry remains intense. Other local rivalries include Crystal Palace, Charlton Athletic, and Leeds United, the latter of which has developed into a fiery contest due to historical clashes and strong supporter cultures.