Departing Nagoya Grampus goalkeeper Mitch Langerak hailed his team’s triumphant League Cup final victory over Albirex Niigata as the “perfect ending” to his illustrious tenure, showcasing his skills through a series of crucial saves before stepping up to score in the penalty shootout, ultimately guiding his team to clinch the prestigious silverware for the second time in history.
The 36-year-old Australian, who assumed the role of team captain this season, expressed his belief that he is leaving behind a heartfelt gift for the passionate Nagoya supporters as he prepares to return home next year for family reasons, marking a bittersweet farewell to the club he has dedicated himself to over the years.
Nagoya Grampus goalkeeper Mitch Langerak holds the League Cup trophy after his team’s penalty-shootout victory against Albirex Niigata in the tournament final at Tokyo’s National Stadium on Nov. 2, 2024. (Kyodo)
“This was the perfect way to end,” remarked Langerak, who was named man of the match, reflecting on the emotions surrounding the game after a challenging period for the team, particularly with their elimination from the Emperor’s Cup and the difficulties in competing for the J-League title. This unforgettable moment transpired at Tokyo’s National Stadium, where an array of Australian flags proudly waved from the Nagoya section, creating an electric atmosphere.
“If we could deliver like today, this would be the perfect ending and perfect way to say thank you to the fans,” he continued, expressing his immense relief and acknowledging the collective effort of everyone involved in the club. “The lead-up did make me feel uncomfortable because it’s not about me and because I’m leaving. It’s about everybody who helped us and within the club.”
Langerak’s victory this year holds a special place in his heart, especially as it contrasted sharply with the 2021 League Cup, which had been his only title during his seven-year tenure with the team. The atmosphere during this recent final surpassed that of the previous year’s event held at a COVID-restricted Saitama Stadium, which drew fewer than 18,000 spectators for a tension-filled 2-1 win against Cerezo Osaka.
Langerak, who previously enjoyed success in Germany with Borussia Dortmund, clinching the Bundesliga title in 2011 and following it up with a league and German Cup double under the legendary Jurgen Klopp alongside fellow star Shinji Kagawa, reflected on the unmatchable atmosphere of the Tokyo Olympic venue, stating, “It was another level.”
Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu and J-League Chairman Yoshikazu Nonomura praised the excitement and quality of the final, which featured two of the country’s most dedicated fan bases, concluding in a thrilling 3-3 tie after extra time before Nagoya triumphed 5-4 in the penalty shootout.
Langerak commented, “I’ve played in some big atmospheres before, and this was up there, right at the top. Definitely, today was special, and the way the game played out made it a little bit more special,” appreciating not just the match result but the overall experience.
Nagoya Grampus goalkeeper Mitch Langerak celebrates as his team clinches a penalty-shootout victory against Albirex Niigata in the League Cup final at Tokyo’s National Stadium on Nov. 2, 2024. (Kyodo)
Langerak again demonstrated his prowess from the penalty spot, having previously scored during the quarterfinal shootout against Sanfrecce Hiroshima while humorously stating, “There are harder things for me to do in a game than taking penalties.”
Having made a remarkable 231 appearances as the club’s most capped overseas player, surpassing the revered Yugoslavia legend Dragan Storkovic, who led Nagoya to their inaugural J-League title in 2010 as manager, Langerak’s legacy is firmly established in the club’s history. He pledged his continued support for Nagoya even after his return home, vowing, “I’ll be a Grampus No. 1 supporter. I’ll be watching from afar. I want the club to take the next step and be regularly competing for the titles. We’re a big club.”
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Intensity of the match, with both acknowledging Langerak’s pivotal role in the team’s success.
**Interview with Mitch Langerak**
**Interviewer:** Mitch, congratulations on the League Cup victory! How does it feel to end your time with Nagoya Grampus on such a high note?
**Mitch Langerak:** Thank you! It feels incredible. Winning the League Cup this way is truly the perfect ending to my time at Nagoya. The atmosphere was electric, and to contribute like that in both saves and scoring in the shootout was special.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned in your post-match comments that this moment was for the fans. Could you elaborate on your feelings towards the Nagoya supporters?
**Mitch Langerak:** The support from the fans has always been overwhelming. They’ve stood by us through highs and lows. Winning this trophy feels like a heartfelt gift to them, especially as I prepare to head back home next year. I wanted to leave them with something to remember.
**Interviewer:** Reflecting back, how does this victory compare to your previous experiences, particularly the 2021 League Cup triumph?
**Mitch Langerak:** It’s a night and day difference. This victory had a much larger crowd and more energy. The stakes felt higher this time around, and it was an emotionally charged atmosphere at the National Stadium. It’s something I’ll never forget.
**Interviewer:** As you’re leaving the club, what will you miss the most about Nagoya Grampus?
**Mitch Langerak:** I’ll miss everything, to be honest. The camaraderie with my teammates, the passionate fans, and the sense of community in Nagoya. It’s been my home for so long. But I believe this ending is a fitting tribute to all that we’ve achieved together.
**Interviewer:** Any final messages for your teammates and supporters as you move forward?
**Mitch Langerak:** I just want to thank everyone associated with the club for their support during my time here. I’ve grown so much as a player and a person, and that’s thanks to the amazing people I’ve worked with. I hope to make them proud wherever I go next.
**Interviewer:** Best of luck in your future endeavors, Mitch!
**Mitch Langerak:** Thank you! I appreciate it.
