Masao Tachibana is one half of the Tachibana twins, the older brother of Kazuo Tachibana. Originally playing as forwards during elementary school, Masao and his brother eventually shift to midfield roles when representing the Japanese national youth team, with Masao specifically taking up the position of defensive midfielder. The Tachibana twins are known for their acrobatic style of play, exceptional speed, and quick footwork, which makes them difficult opponents to handle on the pitch. Masao’s playing style relies heavily on coordination with his twin brother, and together they execute a series of aerial techniques collectively referred to as Skylab techniques. These moves contribute to both offense and defense; the twins often use their acrobatic jumps to intercept passes, clear the ball, and create shooting opportunities. One of their signature combination plays is the Skylab Twin Shot, which they perform with the assistance of teammate Hiroshi Jito, who provides a platform for their aerial maneuvers.

In terms of personality, Masao is portrayed as proud, confident, and fiercely competitive. He is also a dedicated team player who values stability and harmony within the squad. He tends to be cautious and methodical in his approach, focusing on executing his responsibilities reliably rather than taking unnecessary risks. Although he can be stubborn and occasionally hot-tempered, his primary motivation is to prove the strength of Japanese soccer on the international stage and to support his brother and teammates. During the Junior Youth Arc, the twins are selected for the All Japan U-16 team to compete in the International Junior Youth Tournament in Paris. Their role in the story is to provide the team with a fast, acrobatic dimension and a strong defensive presence in midfield. They are also a key part of the team’s tactical setup, using their high-energy play to disrupt opponents and create chances.

Masao’s central relationship is with his twin brother Kazuo; their bond is the foundation of their playing style and personal dynamic. They also develop a strong on-field partnership with Hiroshi Jito, whose physical strength complements their agility. As the tournament progresses, Masao and Kazuo are challenged to adapt their game to face world-class opponents. Their heavy dependence on each other is identified as a potential weakness, prompting them to work on developing more independent skills while still maintaining their signature combination play. This growth marks a key part of Masao’s development during the arc. Notably, the Tachibana twins are among the standout Japanese players in the Junior Youth competition, and their acrobatic abilities are a memorable element of the team’s matches against powerful international sides.