Louza back for Watford as they take on Millwall – can it spark a turnaround?

Louza's return fuels Watford's hopes

When Paulo Pezzolano announced that Imran Louza was cleared to play, the atmosphere at Watford's training ground changed instantly. The French‑born midfielder had missed three games after a red card, leaving a noticeable gap in the team's creative midfield. His comeback came just in time for the visit to The Den, and the manager called it the most needed piece of news of the week.

Louza wasn't the only hopeful face. Senegalese midfielder Nampalys Mendy finally completed his rehab after a long lay‑off with Lens, and he’s now back in full training. Young forward Pierre Dwomoh logged a second straight week of uninterrupted work following a thigh strain, while loanee Caleb Wiley from Chelsea has been cleared to train with the squad after dealing with minor back and groin niggles. Defender Marc Bola also shook off a calf issue that limited him to a sub role against Blackburn, and playmaker Giorgi Chakvetadze reported steady progress with a stubborn toe injury.

On the flip side, the squad still has a few unanswered questions. Right‑back Jeremy Ngakia’s groin problem kept him out of the previous home game, and Jack Grieves remains a month away after knee surgery. Additionally, Othmane Maamma was called up for Morocco’s Under‑20 World Cup, meaning he won’t be available for the Millwall fixture.

Millwall snatch a narrow win

The match itself turned into a tactical chess game. Watford tried to assert themselves through quick passing, with Louza looking to unlock the defense, but Steven Benda in the Millwall net was vigilant. The only real chance came in the 20th minute when Louza struck from the edge of the box, only to see the ball sail over the bar. Millwall’s breakthrough arrived just before halftime: Camiel Neghli curled a free‑kick into the top corner, leaving Benda rooted to the spot.

After the break, Watford pushed for an equaliser, with midfielders shuffling and forwards making runs, but Millwall held firm. The Lions’ defense stayed compact, and their goalkeeper made a couple of fine saves to preserve the lead. When the final whistle blew, the score line read 1‑0, handing Millwall their first home victory of the 2025‑26 season and lifting them to 10th place in the Championship table.

For Watford, the loss is a disappointment, especially after the optimism surrounding Louza’s return and the improving injury list. Still, the manager’s tone remained measured, noting that the squad showed resilience and that the experience will help them regroup for the next match.

• Key returning players: Imran Louza, Nampalys Mendy, Pierre Dwomoh, Caleb Wiley
• Injured players still out: Jeremy Ngakia, Jack Grieves, Othmane Maamma (international duty)
• Result: Millwall 1‑0 Watford
• Goal scorer: Camiel Neghli (free‑kick)