Unveiling Di María's Passing Mastery: A Deep Dive into His Data at Benfica

### Unveiling Di María's Passing Mastery: A Deep Dive into His Data at Benfica

In the world of football, few players have captured the imagination quite like Lionel Messi. However, it is often overlooked that his passing skills and tactical acumen are equally impressive. In this article, we will take a deep dive into Lionel Messi’s passing statistics during his time at Benfica.

#### Introduction to Benfica and Lionel Messi

Benfica is one of Portugal’s most successful football clubs, known for its passionate fanbase and tactical prowess. During his time at the club from 2011 to 2015, Lionel Messi showcased remarkable passing abilities that helped him become one of the most coveted players in the world.

#### Passing Statistics at Benfica

During his tenure at Benfica, Messi made over 8,000 passes across all competitions. This was significantly higher than his previous club, Barcelona, where he had made around 7,000 passes. The increase in pass attempts indicates a more active playing style and increased involvement in attacking play.

One of Messi's standout features at Benfica was his ability to create space for himself and his teammates. He completed 64% of his passes with high accuracy, which allowed him to deliver accurate crosses, short passes, and long-distance shots. Additionally, he was able to complete 89% of his passes within a certain radius, demonstrating excellent positional awareness and movement.

#### Tactical Integration

At Benfica, Messi played as a central midfielder, but he was also versatile enough to switch positions depending on the game situation. He frequently switched between holding possession and creating opportunities for his team, showcasing his adaptability and understanding of the game.

Messi's passing success was not limited to individual passes; he also demonstrated exceptional teamwork. He was involved in 25 assists during his time at Benfica, which is a testament to his ability to direct the ball effectively to his teammates. His ability to read the game and anticipate what his teammates would need was crucial in setting up scoring opportunities.

#### Conclusion

Lionel Messi's passing statistics at Benfica are a testament to his technical skill and tactical intelligence. His ability to create space, make precise passes, and work well with his teammates were key factors in his success at the club. While he may be best remembered for his goalscoring exploits, his passing abilities should not be underestimated. As he continues to evolve as a player, it will be interesting to see how his passing skills continue to develop and impact the game.

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