Millwall edge Norwich on opening day

Paddy Davitt analyzes Norwich City's 2-1 defeat to Millwall at Carrow Road on the opening day of the Championship.

Millwall edge Norwich on opening day as Manning rebuild plan unfolds

Millwall took the lead early in the second half when Camiel Neghli rifled home after Norwich started slowly. Josh Sargent levelled for Norwich with a strong move through the Lions' defence, but Langstaff soon restored Millwall's advantage. Makama was handed his debut late on as Norwich chased an equaliser the home side could not find. In the atmosphere of a fresh start for Norwich under Liam Manning, the opener highlighted the work still needed to balance defence and attack.

Manning used a new midfield balance, bringing Mirko Topic into the starting lineup to link play with Jacob Wright. Kvistgaarden and Nunez provided options from the bench, signaling a move toward more ready made depth. Yet the absence of Kenny McLean and a lack of sustained attacking threat after the break underscored the scale of the challenge facing this rebuilding project.

Manning inherits a squad that needs both cohesion and legs. The early signs from Topic and Wright suggest a potential central axis that could drive Norwich forward if they find a consistent partnership. The real test will be turning promising midfield performances into regular attacking threats and solid defensive stability.

The result on opening day is a reminder that quick fixes are unlikely. Millwall's physical approach exposed Norwich gaps, but the match also offered a glimpse of how strategic recruitment could shape the season. Kvistgaarden and Nunez provide exciting options, while Makama represents a long term asset. The next weeks will reveal whether Manning can translate training ground ideas into steady progress.

Highlights

Patience will be a factor as Norwich shapes its squad for the weeks ahead.