In football, one of the most crucial aspects of a player's performance is their ability to make key passes that can lead to goals and assists. One player who has consistently impressed with his passing abilities is Sergio Otamendi, a defender for Spanish club Benfica.
One particular area where Otamendi excels is in his key pass success rate. According to data from Transfermarkt, during the 2019-2020 season, Otamendi completed 58% of his attempted key passes, ranking him among the top defenders in Europe. This high success rate is particularly impressive given that many of these key passes were likely made under pressure or when there was a clear chance of scoring.
Furthermore, Otamendi's key pass success rate has only improved over time. In the 2017-2018 season,Primeira Liga Hotspots he completed just 44% of his key passes, but by the end of the 2019-2020 season, his success rate had increased to 58%. This demonstrates the consistency and reliability of his passing skills.
Another factor contributing to Otamendi's success in making key passes is his understanding of the game. He is known for his calmness on the ball and his ability to read the game well. This helps him to anticipate plays and make accurate decisions about where to play the ball, leading to more effective key passes.
However, it's not just about making successful key passes; Otamendi also possesses excellent positional awareness and tactical understanding. He understands how to communicate with his teammates and work as part of a defensive unit. This allows him to effectively distribute the ball while keeping his team organized and ready to attack.
Overall, Sergio Otamendi's key pass success rate at Benfica is a testament to his skill as a defender and his ability to contribute to his team's success. His consistent and reliable performances have earned him a reputation as one of the best defenders in European football.