Lions and Irons: the Dockers derby – a photo essay

For the first time in 14 years, Millwall and West Ham faced each other in their 100th meeting. Documentary photographer Adam Isfendiyar was at the Den to record the fans’ matchday experience On 19 September 2026, Millwall hosted West Ham at the Den.

It was the 100th competitive meeting between the clubs, and the first in 14 years. The two teams are separated and connected by the Thames. They were formed around the heavy industries of east London’s docklands in the late 19th century and were geographically much closer then – Millwall on the Isle of Dogs and Thames Ironworks, from…