Di María's Assist Statistics in Benfica: A Comprehensive Overview
### Di María's Assist Statistics in Benfica: A Comprehensive Overview
In the world of football, assist statistics play a crucial role in assessing players' contribution to their team's success. One player who has consistently shown his ability to create scoring opportunities for teammates is Lionel Messi, particularly during his time at Benfica. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Di María's assist statistics while playing for the Portuguese club.
#### Introduction
Lionel Messi's career with Benfica spans from 2017 to 2018, marking one of his most productive periods in Europe. During this time, he not only demonstrated exceptional individual skill but also made significant contributions through assists, which are often overlooked in favor of goals scored. This analysis aims to highlight Di María's assist performance and its impact on Benfica's overall success.
#### Assists in 2017-2018 Season
In the 2017-2018 season, Di María recorded 55 assists for Benfica. These assists were distributed across various positions, including forward, midfielder,Bundesliga Express and even defender. The majority of these assists came from his attacking midfield role, where he often found space between defenders and set up teammates for goal-scoring opportunities.
#### Key Assists
One standout assist from this period was when he fed Cristiano Ronaldo into space in front of goal, leading to Ronaldo's hat-trick against Athletic Bilbao. Another notable assist was when he passed to Luis Suarez for a shot that ultimately went in for the winner against Sporting Lisbon. These assists not only highlighted Di María's creativity but also underscored his ability to find the open man in the opposition defense.
#### Impact on Team Performance
Di María's assists had a profound impact on Benfica's overall performance. They contributed to several key victories, such as their 4-1 win over Athletic Bilbao and their 2-1 victory against Sporting Lisbon. These results not only boosted morale but also helped secure important league and cup matches.
#### Comparison to Previous Seasons
While Di María's assist count may seem impressive, it's worth noting that his previous seasons with Barcelona (2016-2017) and Juventus (2017-2018) saw higher numbers of assists. However, his consistent performance throughout the years demonstrates his adaptability and ability to excel in different environments.
#### Conclusion
Lionel Messi's assist statistics in Benfica provide a clear picture of his contribution to his team's success. His ability to find gaps in defenses and set up scoring opportunities was instrumental in helping Benfica achieve multiple victories during his tenure. While his total number of assists may not be unprecedented, the quality and consistency of these assists speak volumes about his skill and tactical awareness.
As Messi continues his journey in European football, his assist statistics will undoubtedly remain a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.
