Joe Willock scored a late winner as Newcastle United came through a major scare against Championship outfit Millwall to move into the last 16 of the Carabao Cup. Matthias Jaissle's men found it difficult to make their chances count before the midfielder finally ended the deadlock at The Den.

Newcastle have secured their place in the last 16 of the Carabao Cup after battling to a narrow win over Millwall. Jaissle went with a strong starting XI for the third-round clash at The Den. Even with a powerful line-up on the pitch, the Premier League side struggled to click in the final third.

The 2025 winners controlled possession but were unusually wasteful in front of goal for large parts of the night. Willock ultimately emerged as the match-winner, sparing the visitors the danger of an approaching penalty shootout. His late decisive contribution also ensured Jaissle kept up his unbeaten start to the campaign.

The Magpies managed only one shot on target during a frustrating first hour in south London. Millwall goalkeeper Filip Marschall produced an excellent save, getting down well to keep out a fierce Willock effort at his near post.

But the midfielder was not to be denied again as time began to run out. In the 81st minute, Lewis Hall sent a precise low cross into the penalty area.

Willock reacted first and turned the ball into the net, finally ending Millwall's stubborn resistance. The strike brought huge relief to the travelling Newcastle fans, who had watched their side labour for long spells.

Before Willock's winner, Millwall had looked capable of producing a famous cup shock. Substitute Tairyk Arconte nearly punished some loose defending from Tino Livramento when he broke through on goal, but his driven effort struck the post and bounced away.

Newcastle also had their share of frustration at the other end. The away side saw a strong penalty appeal turned down right on half-time. Fabian Schar seemed to have his shirt pulled inside the area by Millwall defender Caleb Taylor. However, the referee waved away the protests, leaving Newcastle to find their breakthrough from open play.

After coming through a difficult cup test, Newcastle will now switch their focus back to domestic football. The Magpies are due to take on Leeds United in their next Premier League fixture as they aim to build momentum.

Millwall, meanwhile, will look to recover quickly and concentrate on improving their position in the Championship table. The Lions are set to host Blackburn Rovers in their next league game.