# Di Maria's Assists in His Time at Benfica: An Analysis

Throughout his illustrious career with Benfica, Lionel Messi has consistently showcased his exceptional skills on the pitch. One aspect of his game that stands out is his ability to assist teammates effectively, often making crucial plays that lead to goals or assists for other players.

### Early Career at Benfica

Messi made his debut for Benfica in the 2011-12 season, and his first appearance as a substitute came in the following year. During this time, he demonstrated his potential as a midfielder but struggled to find consistent form. However, it was during his second campaign at Benfica that his assist tally began to take off.

### The Rise of Messi's Assist Career

In the 2014-15 season, Messi made 69 appearances for Benfica, scoring 17 goals and providing 38 assists. This performance marked a significant turning point in his career, as he became one of the most prolific assist creators in European football history. In the 2015-16 season, he increased his assist count to 45, further cementing his status as a master of creating chances for others.

### Key Assist Trends

One notable trend in Messi's assist production during his time at Benfica was his tendency to create opportunities from set pieces. He frequently assisted from corners, free kicks, and penalty kicks,Primeira Liga Hotspots showcasing his versatility and creativity on the field. Additionally, he often found himself in prime positions to receive passes and deliver them directly into the box, allowing teammates like Cristiano Ronaldo to capitalize on those opportunities.

### Impact on Team Performance

The number of assists Messi provided not only helped him earn recognition as one of the best assist creators in football but also contributed significantly to his team's success. His assists often led to goal-scoring opportunities, which were instrumental in securing league titles, Champions League victories, and Copa del Rey triumphs.

### Challenges and Growth

While Messi's assist record at Benfica was impressive, there were challenges he faced along the way. He had to adapt to new playing styles and compete against top-tier opponents, including Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Juventus. These experiences honed his skills and prepared him for future stints in more competitive leagues.

### Conclusion

Lionel Messi's time at Benfica was marked by a remarkable rise in his assist numbers, demonstrating his ability to create opportunities for others and contribute significantly to his team's success. From the early days as a substitute to becoming one of the most prolific assist creators in the world, Messi's contributions to Benfica have been invaluable. As he continues to evolve as a player and coach, his impact on the sport will undoubtedly continue to be felt for years to come.

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