Lang entertains Club Brugge fans and takes kickoff with much-discussed trick

In the playoffs for the Belgian league title, Club Brugge has been embracing a symbolic and emotional tradition: inviting former players to take the ceremonial kickoff before each match.

On Sunday, ahead of their crucial home clash against Genk, it was Noa Lang’s turn to return to Jan Breydel Stadium and his comeback was anything but low-key. The match ended with a dramatic 1-0 victory for Club Brugge, but Lang's presence was one of the main talking points both before and after the final whistle.

Now a PSV player, Lang was welcomed like a hero by the Brugge faithful. The 25-year-old attacker spent three memorable years at the club, becoming a fan favorite not just for his talent, but for his personality and deep connection with the supporters. His return on Sunday reignited that bond. As he walked onto the pitch for the ceremonial kickoff, he couldn't resist adding a theatrical flair to the moment in trademark Lang style.

In a move reminiscent of Dutch forward Memphis Depay, Lang performed a paradinha a sudden stop while approaching the ball and stood still with both feet on top of it, facing the crowd. It was a gesture that brought cheers from the stands, as well as smiles from current players and staff. But for longtime Brugge fans, it was also a nod to the past. Lang had done the exact same trick two years earlier during a heated match against Antwerp, an act that drew annoyance from defender Toby Alderweireld but delighted the home crowd. On this return, however, the gesture was met only with celebration.

Lang’s ceremonial kickoff was more than just a fun moment it symbolized his lasting connection to the club. Throughout the playoffs, Club Brugge has been honoring its former stars in this way, reminding supporters of the club’s identity, legacy, and those who have contributed to its modern successes. Lang’s presence, perhaps more than any other so far, captured the essence of that tradition.

The match itself was a tense and tightly contested battle, with both sides creating chances but struggling to convert. It wasn’t until stoppage time that Club Brugge broke the deadlock, thanks to a coolly taken penalty by Maxim De Cuyper. The young defender showed nerves of steel as he stepped up in the final minutes to convert and hand Brugge a vital win. The goal sparked wild celebrations both on the pitch and in the stands but the party didn’t stop there.

After the final whistle, De Cuyper grabbed a megaphone and turned to the supporters, leading the chants and celebrating with the fans in full voice. Moments later, Noa Lang crouched down next to him on the advertising boards, joining in the singing, chanting, and emotional release of the evening. For a player who now plies his trade in the Netherlands, it was a powerful statement of loyalty and affection one that didn’t go unnoticed by the Brugge faithful.

The result had major implications for the title race. With the win, Club Brugge closed the gap to Genk to just one point in the playoff standings, throwing the championship battle wide open. The fans knew it, the players knew it, and Lang certainly knew it too.

Despite having played for PSV just 24 hours earlier and scoring in their win over Almere City Lang made the trip to Belgium, showing where his heart still lies. And he made his thoughts perfectly clear in the post-match mixed zone. “Club Brugge will be champions again, you’ll see,” he told DAZN with a smile. “Write it down. Easy.”

It was a confident prediction, but one that will resonate with fans dreaming of another title. Club Brugge hasn’t always been consistent this season, but their form in the playoffs, combined with the passion of their supporters and the belief radiating from former players like Lang, suggests that the title race is far from over.

Lang’s visit was a reminder of his enduring impact at Club Brugge a player who left his mark not only with his goals and assists, but with his charisma and fierce pride in the shirt. And as the season nears its climax, those qualities may be just as important off the pitch as they are on it.