Pernille Harder Shines as Bayern Munich Take Control Against Manchester United in Champions League Quarter-Final
Manchester United Women face an uphill battle in the second leg of their Women’s Champions League quarter-final tie after falling to a 3-2 defeat against Bayern Munich at Traditional Trafford on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. Pernille Harder, the former Chelsea forward, proved to be a constant threat, scoring twice for the German champions.
Early Bayern Dominance
Bayern Munich wasted little time asserting their dominance, with Harder opening the scoring in just the second minute. A well-placed ball over the top from Arianna Caruso found Harder, who skillfully controlled the ball and slotted it into the bottom corner, leaving Phallon Tullis-Joyce with no chance. This marked Harder’s sixth goal of the Champions League campaign and her 47th in the competition moving her to fifth in the all-time standings. The Guardian
United Responds, But Bayern Regain Lead
Manchester United responded mid-way through the first half, equalizing through a penalty converted by Maya Le Tissier in the 24th minute, after Glodis Viggosdottir handled Lea Schuller’s shot. However, Bayern Munich regained the lead in the 71st minute, again through Harder, who capitalized on a through ball from Momoko Tanikawa. The Guardian
Tanikawa Seals the Victory for Bayern
The match appeared to be heading for a draw until Momoko Tanikawa struck in the 84th minute, securing a crucial away victory for Bayern Munich. The Guardian The final score was 3-2 to Bayern Munich.
Match Details
- Manchester United: Maya Le Tissier (24′ Pen), Hanna Lundkvist (76′)
- Bayern Munich: Pernille Harder (2′, 71′), Momoko Tanikawa (84′)
Looking Ahead
Manchester United will need to produce a strong performance in the second leg in Germany to overcome the 3-2 deficit and maintain their Champions League hopes alive. Bayern Munich, meanwhile, will be confident of progressing to the semi-finals with their away goals advantage. Goal.com
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