Both Rams players were bundled out of Olympic football on Wednesday in the final game of the group stage. One played the most minutes of his campaign and the other did not even get onto the pitch.
Ruben Zadkovich was ruled out of Australia’s final game against the Ivory Coast with a groin strain. Australia needed a win to assure they progressed to the finals and in an end to end game they certainly had their chances. Unfortunately for the Olyroo's their lack of a quality final ball and poor finishing cost them on 81 minutes when Kalou slotted home the winning goal. After wasting many genuine chances Australia were caught on the break and paid the ultimate price going down 1-0.
Benny Feilhaber started as a substitute for the third time in the competition as the U.S.A met Nigeria. Like the Aussies they required a win to progress and things started badly when only 3 minutes into the game Orozco was given his marching orders for the U.S. It took until the 39th minute for Nigeria to take advantage of the extra man with a goal from Isaac.
Feilhaber joined proceedings at half time and picked up a yellow card for his efforts in the 60th minute. All reports from the match praised Benny for his patience on the ball and his introduction turning the flow of the game.
Nigeria doubled their advantage on 79 minutes through Obinna before the U.S.A pulled one back from an 88th minute penalty. Sadly though it didn't signal the grandstand finish the U.S.A would have hoped for as Nigeria held on for a 2-1 victory.
No final appearances for either Rams player but definitely some positives to bring back to Pride Park. Both players are ready to hit the ground running (Rubens groin injury pending), should be reasonably match fit and ready to challenge for their spot in the Derby line up. Playing at the Olympics is something they both will remember for the rest of their lives and in the case of Zadkovich he has a goal at the games to add to his list of achievements and the confidence that must come with it.
Safe trip back to Derby boys and hope to see you in a Rams shirt on match day very soon!