Burnley 5–1 Millwall | FA Cup | Saturday 10 January 2026 | Turf Moor
Burnley produced one of their most complete and convincing performances of the season as they swept aside Millwall at Turf Moor, progressing in the FA Cup with a dominant display that underlined the gap in quality between Premier League and Championship opposition on the day. Playing with confidence, intensity and attacking fluency, the Clarets took control early and never relinquished it.
From the opening exchanges, Burnley imposed themselves on the contest, dictating the tempo through sustained possession and aggressive pressing. By half-time, the outcome was effectively decided, with Burnley holding a commanding 3–0 lead after a first half defined by control, precision and clinical finishing. The home side enjoyed around 66 per cent possession in the opening 45 minutes and registered 10 shots, six of them on target, compared to Millwall’s four attempts.
Burnley’s dominance with the ball was matched by their sharpness without it. Their pressing game disrupted Millwall’s build-up repeatedly, forcing turnovers in advanced areas and allowing the Clarets to sustain pressure deep in the visitors’ half. With an 88 per cent pass completion rate in the first half and seven chances created from open play, Burnley were able to stretch Millwall across the pitch, attacking down both flanks and exploiting spaces between the lines.
Millwall manager acknowledged after the match that the contest had effectively been settled by the interval. With the scoreline already beyond reach, his priority shifted to managing the game and protecting his squad, particularly with the Championship campaign firmly in mind. He explained that structure was inevitably lost as the match wore on, but felt the decision to introduce younger players was necessary, both to give them exposure at a high level and to protect key senior figures.
The Millwall manager was candid in his assessment of the difference between the two sides, stating that Burnley’s clinical edge was decisive and reflective of the different levels the teams operate at. While Millwall had moments where they created opportunities, he felt his side failed to take too many chances, whereas Burnley punished mistakes ruthlessly. In his view, Burnley fully deserved the victory.
He also confirmed that Derek, who had been scheduled to feature, was ruled out late due to an ankle issue. The midfielder was already struggling when travelling to the game and was deemed unfit after continuing discomfort overnight and into matchday, forcing a change of plan.
Burnley showed no signs of easing off after the break, continuing to control possession and maintain attacking intent despite the comfortable lead. They finished the match with approximately 64 per cent of the ball, recording 18 shots overall, 11 on target, and seven corners. Their ability to manage the game was evident in their composure, completing more than 520 passes and winning the majority of midfield duels.
Although Burnley were unable to keep a clean sheet, conceding late on, it did little to detract from an otherwise dominant performance. By that stage, Millwall had been restricted to just eight shots across the entire match and only three on target, with most of their attacking moments coming in isolated phases rather than sustained pressure.
After the game, the Burnley manager expressed clear satisfaction with both the result and the manner of the performance. He highlighted that the win had been important for the group, particularly after a period spent searching for momentum. He felt the players delivered exactly what had been asked of them, praising their quality, intensity and commitment to the game plan.
He also noted that cup competitions can often be difficult to navigate, but believed Burnley’s quality shone through decisively. The manager revealed that he had challenged his players to be ruthless in their habits, particularly in the final third, and was pleased with how effectively that message was executed. In his view, the dominant nature of the result and performance should serve as a significant confidence boost moving forward.
Special praise was reserved for Ashley Barnes, whose performance led the line and embodied Burnley’s attacking edge. The manager described Barnes as an experienced figure whose influence extends far beyond goals, highlighting the positive impact he continues to have on the squad both on and off the pitch. He acknowledged the reaction inside the stadium, where supporters were eager to see Barnes complete a hat-trick, underlining the connection between player and crowd.
The Burnley manager also spoke warmly about Jayden, pointing to his sharpness, natural talent and continued development. He emphasised that the young forward remains very much a work in progress but believes his potential is clear, praising his attitude and contribution while stressing the importance of patience as he continues to grow.
Ultimately, this was a statement victory for Burnley. Dominant in possession, clinical in attack and disciplined in execution, the Clarets delivered a performance full of pride, motivation and clarity. For Millwall, the focus now firmly returns to the Championship, while Burnley move forward with renewed belief and momentum.
