Sat Aug 22, 2026 7:40 pm
Nathan Trott 8
Made several important saves, including an excellent early stop from Corey Blackett-Taylor and a crucial one late on to deny Lars Salvesen, giving Cardiff the platform to earn their point.
Ronan Kpakio 5
A difficult afternoon for the youngster, who was caught out of possession on a number of occasions and was at fault for the deflection that led to Derby's second goal.
Perry Ng 6
Had to step into an unfamiliar centre-half role alongside Bagan and worked hard to help Cardiff cope with Derby's aerial and direct threat.
Joel Bagan 8 - Star Man)
Excellent at centre-half in a relatively unfamiliar role, with his early goal-line clearance proving crucial before he grew into the game and helped Cardiff withstand Derby's pressure.
Calum Scanlon 8
Another assured display from the young full-back, who offered plenty going forward and was also excellent defensively when Cardiff were under pressure.
Alex ROBERTSON 7
Had a big responsibility screening a makeshift defence and handled it impressively, while his set-piece delivery created Cardiff's opener and he showed plenty of composure in possession.
Jack Moylan 6
Was not quite as influential as he would have wanted in the first half but looked much better after moving into a more central role before being forced off with a thigh problem.
Rubin Colwill 8
A constant creative threat and involved in the move for Salech's goal, although he was withdrawn just before the hour mark having not been fully fit.
Ollie Tanner 7
Provided one of Cardiff's best moments with his driving run and intelligent pass in the build-up to Salech's goal, while also working hard on the flank.
Yousef Salech 7
Had to battle a lot on his own against Derby's centre-backs but took his goal brilliantly, smashing home Cardiff's second with a clinical finish.
Cian Ashford 8
Made an excellent start to the campaign, taking his goal well and looking lively throughout his time on the pitch before being replaced shortly before the hour.
Subs
Chris Willock (Ashford 59) 7
Added energy and width after coming on, repeatedly looking to deliver dangerous balls into the box and drawing fouls from Derby defenders.
David Turnbull (R. Colwill 59) 7
Made a positive contribution after replacing Colwill, including an excellent defensive intervention at left-back, before threatening from distance.
Joel Colwill (Moylan 71) 7
Worked hard after replacing Moylan and produced a crucial piece of defensive work late on to win a free-kick deep inside Cardiff territory.
Isaak Davies (Tanner 71) 7
Added pace and endeavour after coming on, winning a corner and repeatedly trying to get on the end of Willock's crosses.