Old Trafford witnessed a moment of brilliance in the closing stages of Bayern Munich’s Women’s Champions League clash with Manchester United. The score tied at 2-2, the ball fell to Momoko Tanikawa, who quickly shifted it to Franziska Kett. Kett dribbled briefly before returning the pass to Tanikawa, who then calmly slotted home the winning goal. It’s a move that requires not only skill, but composure – a quality not often seen in such high-pressure situations. Tanikawa, remarkably, appeared to have all the time in the world, despite the urgency of the moment.
That goal, a testament to Tanikawa’s burgeoning talent, propelled Bayern Munich to a 3-2 victory in the first leg. However, the upcoming quarter-final second leg on Wednesday (18:45 local time, which is 12:45 PM EDT/16:45 UTC) will demand more than a single moment of magic. Bayern will demand to replicate the central presence Tanikawa brought to the game from the moment she entered the pitch, and establish control earlier in the match if they hope to reach the semi-finals for the first time since the 2020/21 season.
Prior to Tanikawa’s introduction in the 60th minute, the match could have swung either way. Her arrival, however, injected a new dynamic into Bayern’s attack. Even after Manchester United equalized, it was clear Tanikawa had made her side more dangerous. At just 20 years old, she plays with a maturity and self-assurance typically associated with more experienced players. Comparisons have even been drawn to Jamal Musiala, the Bayern Munich men’s team star, in the way she draws defenders and dictates play – her close control, sudden changes of direction, and creative vision are all hallmarks of a truly gifted midfielder.
Bayern Coach Barcala: Tanikawa is “World Class”
Linda Dallmann described Tanikawa as a “lucky find,” both on and off the pitch, praising her quality as “something I’ve rarely seen.” She added, “And I’ve played with many great players.” Bayern coach José Barcala lauded Tanikawa’s ability to maintain possession and play forward passes even under intense pressure. He noted her ability to break through pressing schemes and execute passes with her first touch, where others require a second. Barcala emphasized her unpredictability and clinical finishing when given space in the final third, even as too highlighting her defensive intelligence. “She is world class,” he stated.
Tanikawa’s value to Bayern lies in her ability to combine individual brilliance with tactical awareness. She reads the game exceptionally well, finds solutions in tight spaces, and accelerates play with minimal touches. With Klara Bühl sidelined, Tanikawa’s importance has only grown, as she provides the spark that Bayern needs to unlock opposing defenses. Her partnership with Pernille Harder is particularly potent, creating a dynamic duo capable of making the difference in the Champions League.
“We have a good chemistry together,” Harder said, a connection that proves particularly effective in congested areas. Teammates recognize Tanikawa’s ability to find a creative solution, and adjust their play accordingly.
Tanikawa joined Bayern Munich in January 2024 from the JFA Academy in Japan, but was immediately loaned to FC Rosengård in Sweden for a year to acclimate to European football. The move was designed to help her develop the physicality and tactical understanding needed to succeed in a more demanding league.
In Munich, Tanikawa has progressed even faster than expected. She was the top scorer and named best player at the inaugural “World Sevens Football” small-sided tournament. In November, she signed a contract extension with Bayern Munich, keeping her with the club through mid-2029. “We are convinced that she can become a incredibly great player,” said Bianca Rech, Director of Women’s Football. The club recognized her potential from the moment she arrived.
Tanikawa hadn’t fully found her rhythm after returning from international duty with Japan, where she won the Asian Cup, in the first leg. Yet, she still made a significant impact on the game. She is expected to start in the return leg, and Bayern’s chances of securing a decisive moment will largely depend on her performance.
The second leg of the Champions League quarter-final between Bayern Munich and Manchester United will be played at the Allianz Arena in Munich on Wednesday, April 8th. Kick-off is scheduled for 18:45 local time (12:45 PM EDT/16:45 UTC). Fans can watch the match on Disney+.
