Millwall’s Femi Azeez Praises Fans After FA Cup Win at Leeds, Amid Tragedy Chant Controversy

Millwall forward Femi Azeez found himself at the center of an unexpected controversy following his team’s 2-0 victory over Leeds United in the FA Cup fourth round at Elland Road on February 8, 2025. While Azeez played a key role in securing Millwall’s place in the next round with a well-taken brace, the match was overshadowed by an incident involving a section of the away fans.

Azeez’s Performance and Social Media Statement

Azeez, 23, made an impressive return to action by scoring in both halves against a much-rotated Leeds United side. Despite Daniel Farke making ten changes to his usual starting XI, Millwall took full advantage, with Azeez spearheading their attack.

After the match, Azeez took to Instagram to express his delight at Millwall’s progress in the competition, posting:

“Into the hat for the next round! Personally really pleased to mark my return with a brace and an incredible team performance to top it off. Thanks for the fantastic away support.”

While his message was meant to celebrate his and his team’s success, it soon became controversial due to an incident involving Millwall supporters during the game.

Tragedy Chants Mar Victory

Shortly after full-time, Leeds United issued a statement condemning what they described as “vile” tragedy chants that were heard from the away section. The chants referenced the deaths of Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight, two Leeds fans who were tragically murdered in Istanbul before a UEFA Cup semi-final match against Galatasaray in 2000.

Leeds United and Millwall both confirmed that they are working closely with authorities to identify those responsible for the offensive chants. The Football Association is expected to launch an official investigation, with the police also involved in reviewing the events at Elland Road.

Despite the chants coming from a small section of Millwall fans, the incident has once again put a spotlight on the growing issue of tragedy chanting in English football, an issue that authorities have been working to eliminate.

Azeez’s Comments Spark Debate

Azeez’s praise of Millwall’s fans in his post-match social media message led to some criticism, as it came shortly after Leeds’ official statement condemning the chants. While it is likely that the winger was unaware of the controversy when making his comments, some felt that acknowledging the away support so soon after the incident was ill-timed.

That being said, Azeez’s remarks were likely made in good faith, simply thanking those who traveled to support his team. Given the severity of the issue, Millwall will likely brief their players on how to handle such situations moving forward.

FA to Investigate as Leeds Look to Move On

Former Premier League referee Keith Hackett has tipped the FA to launch a full investigation into the tragedy chants, with both clubs expected to fully cooperate in identifying those responsible.

For Leeds United, this incident added insult to injury as they crashed out of the FA Cup in disappointing fashion, failing to register a goal against a mid-table Championship side despite playing at home. Josuha Guilavogui, one of the ten changes made by Farke, was among the players who failed to impress after being handed a rare start.

Now, Leeds will shift their focus back to the Championship, where they face Watford at Vicarage Road on February 11. Farke’s side will be eager to bounce back quickly as they continue their push for promotion back to the Premier League.

Key Takeaways:

Millwall beat Leeds 2-0 in the FA Cup fourth round, with Femi Azeez scoring twice.

Azeez praised Millwall’s traveling support, but his comments became controversial due to tragedy chants from some away fans.

Leeds and Millwall condemned the chants and are working with authorities to identify those responsible.

The FA is expected to investigate, with input from the police.

Leeds will now focus on their Championship clash with Watford on February 11 as they aim for promotion.

For more on this developing story, you can check out:

The Guardian – FA Cup: Leeds and Millwall condemn ‘vile’ tragedy chanting at Elland Road

The Times – Leeds condemn ‘vile’ tragedy chants from Millwall fans during defeat