Millwall's playoff curse deepens as Belloumi fires Hull to Wembley

Hull City secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Millwall at the MKM Stadium on Saturday, advancing to the Championship playoff final. Mohamed Belloumi was the hero, scoring a stunning second-half winner that ended Millwall's hopes of promotion.

The result extends Millwall's infamous playoff curse: the Lions have now lost seven successive playoff ties, a record unmatched in English football history.

Context: How the game unfolded

Hull started brightly, dominating possession in the first half. Their high press forced Millwall into several errors, and the breakthrough came in the 34th minute when a swift counter-attack ended with a clinical finish from their striker. Millwall equalised just before half-time through a set-piece header, their usual route to goal.

In the second half, the game became a tactical battle. Hull manager Liam Rosenior switched to a 4-2-3-1 formation, pushing full-backs higher to overload Millwall's defence. The change paid off in the 72nd minute when Belloumi collected a loose ball 25 yards out, drove forward, and unleashed a curling shot into the top corner.

Belloumi's form has been key for Hull this season: the Algerian winger has now scored 12 goals and provided 8 assists in the Championship. His dribbling success rate (62%) is among the highest in the division.

Impact: What this means for both clubs

  • Hull City: Reach their first playoff final since 2016. They face either Southampton or West Brom at Wembley. Victory would end a 15-year top-flight absence.
  • Millwall: Another season in the Championship. Their playoff record now stands at 0 wins from 7 ties – a psychological barrier that may require a complete squad overhaul to overcome.
  • Fantasy Premier League context: If Hull secure promotion, Belloumi's price in FPL next season is likely to be around 5.5m as a mid-priced midfield option with potential.

Financially, promotion to the Premier League is worth at least £170m over three seasons. For Hull, this playoff final represents a transformative opportunity. Their current squad, built on a blend of young talent (Belloumi, 23) and experienced heads, appears well-suited to the Premier League's demands.

What's next: Belloumi's future and Millwall's rebuild

Belloumi's performance will attract Premier League interest regardless of Hull's promotion outcome. Clubs such as Brentford and Brighton have scouted him this season. A move in the summer window appears likely if Hull fail to go up.

For Millwall, manager Gary Rowett faces a crucial summer. The club must address their scoring output (only 52 goals in 46 league matches) and their inability to win knockout matches. A striker signing is paramount if they are to challenge next season.

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