Di María's Goal Scoring and Assists Statistics in His First Season with Benfica
### Di María's Goal Scoring and Assists Statistics in His First Season with Benfica
In his first season with Portuguese club Benfica, Lionel Messi made a significant impact on the team's performance, showcasing both his scoring prowess and assist capabilities. This article delves into the key statistics that highlight Di María's contributions to the squad during this crucial period.
#### Goals Scored
Throughout his first campaign for Benfica, Lionel Messi scored 17 goals across all competitions. These impressive figures were distributed evenly across various leagues, including Liga Nacional (Portuguese Premier League), Campeonato Português de Futebol (CPL), and Copa do Brasil. The goal-scoring spree was particularly notable in the CPL, where he scored 8 goals out of 12 appearances.
One standout moment from his debut season came against Sporting CP in the Copa do Brasil final. In the 64th minute, Messi delivered a brilliant pass to Cristiano Ronaldo,Serie A Stadium who then finished off the move with a stunning header to secure a dramatic victory for Benfica. This display of teamwork and skill highlighted his ability to create opportunities for others while also being capable of scoring goals himself.
#### Assists Given
Lionel Messi provided 9 assists in his first season at Benfica. These assists were instrumental in helping his teammates score goals, contributing significantly to their overall offensive success. The most notable assist came in a friendly match against Real Madrid, where Messi orchestrated a counter-attack that led to a memorable goal by Sergio Ramos. This assist not only demonstrated Messi's creativity but also showcased his ability to control the tempo of the game and set up his teammates for success.
Additionally, Messi frequently found ways to find openings for his teammates, often using his vision and passing skills to create chances. This approach helped to keep the opposition on their toes and ensured that Benfica had multiple options when it came to scoring goals.
#### Impact on Team Performance
The combination of Messi's goals and assists played a pivotal role in Benfica's success during the 2015-2016 season. The team finished second in the CPL, which was a commendable achievement considering they had just signed Messi as a free agent. Messi's performances were so strong that he was named the league's top scorer, further cementing his status as one of the best players in European football.
#### Conclusion
Lionel Messi's impressive goal-scoring and assist statistics in his first season with Benfica demonstrate his exceptional talent and adaptability as a player. By consistently finding ways to score goals and provide assists, Messi not only helped to elevate the team's offensive capabilities but also inspired his teammates to perform at their best. As the 2015-2016 season comes to a close, Messi's contribution to Benfica remains a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time.