Super Eagles centre-back Semi Ajayi made his return from injury as Hull City lost 3-1 to Millwall in the English Championship at the MKM Stadium on Saturday.

Ajayi returned to competitive action after recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during the third-place match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations while playing for the Nigeria national football team against Egypt.

The defender had featured in six matches during the tournament before suffering the setback, which kept him out of club football since January 17.

The match saw Millwall take the lead through Jake Cooper, who finished from close range following a set-piece play.

Hull City responded in the first half through Joe Gelhardt, who scored from inside the penalty area after a well-worked attacking move to level the score.

In the second half, Millwall regained control of the encounter. Mihailo Ivanovic scored from close range to restore the visitor's advantage after good attacking buildup from the visitors.

Hull City attempted to fight back by introducing attacking substitutions and increasing forward pressure, but Millwall remained organized defensively.

Millwall extended their lead late in the match when Josh Coburn scored with a powerful strike from outside the box, securing the victory for the visitors.

Hull City continued pressing for another goal but were unable to break through Millwall’s defensive lines before the final whistle.

Ajayi completed the match after contributing to several defensive phases of play as he continued building match fitness following his return from injury.

The result left Hull City searching for consistency as they continue their Championship campaign, while Ajayi aims to regain full sharpness following his long injury layoff.

Wale Adejumo