West Ham faced a stern test at The Den as Millwall exposed defensive weaknesses before the visitors rescued a 2-2 draw. The Dockers derby returned for the first time since 2012, and Millwall used long throws to create danger in the first half. Caleb Taylor opened the scoring before Camiel Neghli doubled the advantage. West Ham arrived on a four-match league winning run and stayed top.

Max Kilman endured a difficult afternoon in duels. Former Manchester United defender Paul Parker singled out the 29-year-old on BBC Radio London , as Jake Cooper repeatedly overpowered him. Parker said, “Every time Kilman is one-on-one, he is really struggling. It’s a big problem.”

Kilman deserves criticism, but blaming one centre-back misses the bigger problem. West Ham ’s structure gave him little protection, while injuries to first-choice full-backs reduced Nuno’s options. West Ham Zone noted that Nuno has relied heavily on Kilman because injuries have reduced defensive depth.

Long throws became a tactical test. Lyndon Dykes created pressure, while Millwall attacked loose marking around those deliveries. That points to collective responsibility. Mads Hermansen made saves, yet he could not repair them all.

Nuno deserves some allowance because injuries have limited his choices. Still, 11 competitive matches and only two clean sheets show that the problem extends beyond one bad half. The midfield must shield the centre-backs, while full-backs need sharper tracking.

LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 05: Max Kilman of West Ham United looks dejected following the teams defeat in the Emirates FA Cup Quarter Final match between West Ham United and Leeds United at London Stadium on April 05, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images)

The 2-2 comeback partly disguised how badly West Ham struggled before half-time. Mohamadou Kante changed the mood with a long-range goal, while Konstantinos Mavropanos headed the equaliser. They did not erase those failures.

Nuno needs more than individual heroics. His side must defend second balls, track runners and organise set pieces properly. The midfield must screen the back four against aerial deliveries and physical forwards.