Despite heading for the Championship next season, the Bluebirds were denied a final League One result to celebrate as Stags came out on the right side of a thrilling 5-4 goal-fest on a warm Saturday afternoon.
With both sides having already secured their respective missions this season, it was a free-for-all fixture between the two, and fans were treated to goals galore.
The tone of a superb first half was set after just two minutes when Ryan Sweeney put his side ahead. Stags created plenty of chances throughout the first 45, seeing Lucas Akins bag a quickfire brace thanks to goals in the 23rd and 26th minute.
Cardiff City got a foot back in the game just after the hour mark to make it 3-1, but Rhys Oates responded almost immediately with a superb chipped goal to restore the cushion.
Goals then started to flood in quickly and the second half was end-to-end for the majority. Oliver Irow came off the bench to get himself on the scoresheet. His goal was sandwiched between another two for the Bluebirds, who went on to snag another in stoppage time to make it 5-4.
As the One Call burst into volume for the final minutes, Stags saw out the game to take all three points against the promoted Cardiff City.
1. Liam Roberts - 6/10
Wasn't much he could do about Cardiff's first goal but he spilt the ball for the second. A real shame after a defensively sound first half. Had a lot coming at him in the second half as Cardiff desperately fought for a way back in. Photo: UGC
2. Ryan Sweeney - 8/10
A great all-round performance from the captain to get the early goal which ultimately set the tone for the whole first half. Photo: UGC
3. Jordan Bowery - 6.5/10
Produced a number of important defensive contributions to keep Cardiff City at bay in the first half. Came off for Stephen McLaughlin just after 70 minutes. Photo: UGC
4. Kyle Knoyle - 6.5/10
Enjoyed a strong start to the final game of the season and put in a good performance to ensure Stags ended their campaign on a high. Photo: UGC