# Di María's Assist Statistics at Benfica: A Comprehensive Overview
In the illustrious history of Portuguese football, one name stands out as a force to be reckoned with in the world of assists. Lionel Messi, known for his incredible goal-scoring ability and exceptional creativity on the field, has left an indelible mark on the sport. However, it is not just his scoring prowess that makes him so special; it is also his ability to create opportunities for others, which he does through his precise passing and vision.
One player who has consistently demonstrated this level of assist creation is Argentine midfielder Lionel Messi. His time at Benfica has been marked by numerous instances where he has provided crucial assists to teammates, helping them score goals and contribute significantly to the team's success. In this comprehensive overview, we will delve into Di María's assist statistics at Benfica and explore how he has become a cornerstone of the club's attack.
### Key Assists Achieved at Benfica
1. **Total Assists**: As of my last update, Lionel Messi has recorded 269 assists for Benfica across all competitions (primarily La Liga, but also including UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Copa del Rey). This impressive number highlights his consistency and effectiveness as an assist creator.
2. **La Liga Assists**: Messi has been prolific in La Liga, contributing 244 assists throughout his tenure at the Bernabeu. His precision and accuracy have made him a formidable threat from the midfield, often finding ways to set up his teammates for goals.
3. **UEFA Champions League Assists**: The pinnacle of Messi's career is undoubtedly his performance in the UEFA Champions League. He has scored 78 goals in this competition and has assisted another 55 times,Football Wonderful Matches making him one of the most prolific assist creators in the league's history.
4. **Europa League Assists**: While Messi has not played as many matches in the Europa League compared to La Liga or the Champions League, he still managed to assist 15 times during his time at Benfica. His contributions in this tournament have helped the club secure its place in European competitions.
5. **Copa del Rey Assists**: Messi's impact extends beyond domestic leagues. He has assisted 23 times in the Copa del Rey, further cementing his status as a key player for Benfica in Europe.
### Why Di María is a Dominant Assist Creator
Lionel Messi's assist abilities are rooted in several factors:
- **Vision**: Messi possesses an exceptional eye for spotting opportunities and creating scoring chances. His ability to see patterns and anticipate movements allows him to deliver accurate passes that lead directly to goals.
- **Technical Skills**: With his advanced dribbling, passing, and finishing skills, Messi can distribute the ball effectively to his teammates, providing them with the space they need to exploit weaknesses in the defense.
- **Communication**: Messi communicates well with his teammates, often using body language and verbal cues to direct them towards potential scoring areas. This communication enhances his ability to create assists by setting up plays without needing to rely solely on physical movement.
- **Adaptability**: Throughout his career, Messi has shown remarkable adaptability in different positions and playing styles. At Benfica, he has been able to thrive both as a central midfielder and a winger, showcasing his versatility and adaptability as an assist creator.
### Conclusion
Lionel Messi's assist statistics at Benfica serve as a testament to his unparalleled skill as an assist creator. From La Liga to the Champions League and beyond, he has consistently delivered high-quality assists that have helped his team win trophies and earn respect from fans worldwide. His impact on the game is undeniable, and his legacy as a dominant assist creator at Benfica continues to inspire players and fans alike.