Here’s how the Bluebirds players rated in the clash with BoroCallum Robinson of Cardiff City celebrates with David Turnbull of Cardiff City after scoring goal(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency)

Cardiff City ended 2025 on a high with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Stevenage, coming from behind to underline their credentials at the summit of League One.

It was far from fluent for long spells, but late goals from Callum Robinson and Yousef Salech ensured Brian Barry-Murphy’s side found a way, stretching their lead at the top and maintaining momentum heading into the new year.

After dominating possession without cutting edge in the first half, Cardiff were rocked by Phoenix Patterson’s fine opener just before the hour mark. Sign up to our Cardiff City WhatsApp channel here.

The response, though, was immediate and decisive. Robinson pounced on a loose ball to level before Salech produced a striker’s instinctive finish late on, sparking celebrations inside the Cardiff City Stadium and rewarding the hosts’ persistence against a deep-lying and stubborn Stevenage side.

Player ratings

Nathan Trott – 6

Had very little to do for long periods and could do nothing about Patterson’s excellent strike. Commanded his area well thereafter and was relieved to see an early Stevenage free-kick crash back off the bar.

Perry Ng – 6

Energetic down the right and involved in some neat early combinations, though his final delivery was inconsistent. Replaced on the hour as Cardiff looked for a different angle.

Will Fish – 6

Stepped out confidently and delivered several dangerous crosses. Defended solidly and showed real composure in possession.

Calum Chambers – 7

A steady, composed presence at centre-back who read the game well. Rarely flustered and helped Cardiff stay on the front foot despite Stevenage’s limited threat.

Joel Bagan – 7

Got forward regularly and delivered a handful of inviting balls into the box. Defensively sound and part of Cardiff’s sustained pressure, particularly before the break.

Ryan Wintle – 7

Kept things ticking over nicely and produced some excellent delivery from wide areas. His cross for Salech’s missed header summed up his influence, even if he didn’t get an assist.

David Turnbull – 8 (star man)

Linked play intelligently and arrived in good areas, going close with an effort that clipped the roof of the net. Ran the show for long periods alongside Wintle.

Isaak Davies – 6

Lively early on, stretching Stevenage and winning set-pieces with direct running. Couldn’t quite make the decisive breakthrough and was sacrificed as Cardiff chased the game. Sign up to our daily Bluebirds newsletter here

Callum Robinson – 7

Worked tirelessly between the lines and got his reward with a scrappy but crucial equaliser. Always a nuisance and led the press well before being replaced late.

Chris Willock – 7

One of Cardiff’s main creative outlets, repeatedly testing Stevenage with crosses and shots. His fizzed delivery for Salech’s winner was the decisive moment.

Yousef Salech – 6

Should have scored earlier with a couple of gilt-edged chances but kept getting into the right positions. Showed real striker’s instinct to steer home the late winner.

Subs

Omari Kellyman (for Davies 60) – 8

Made a huge impact with direct running and creativity, playing a key role in the equaliser. Carried a real threat whenever he got on the ball.

Ronan Kpakio (for Ng 60) – 8

Impressed with his energy and defensive awareness, making an important stop to deny Chem Campbell. Also supported well going forward. A bright cameo.

Ollie Tanner (for Willock 83) – 6

A welcome sight back on the pitch, offering fresh legs and enthusiasm late on. Helped Cardiff see the game out.

Alex Robertson (for Turnbull 83) – 6

Slotted in neatly and nearly capped his cameo with a late free-kick. Calm in possession during stoppage time.

Joel Colwill (for Robinson 86) – NA

Too little time to make an impact.

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