# Di María's Record: A Look at His Assists at Benfica
In the illustrious career of Argentine forward Lionel Messi, one aspect that stands out is his prolific goal-scoring ability. However, it's equally impressive how he has also been instrumental in assisting teammates to score goals. This article delves into Di María's record of assists for Benfica, showcasing the impact he has had on his club's success.
### Introduction
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has made significant contributions to various clubs throughout his career. Among these, his time with Benfica was particularly noteworthy, not just for its impact on the team but also for the number of assists he provided. In this article, we will examine Di María's assist record during his tenure at Benfica and discuss the factors contributing to his high assist count.
### Di María's Assist Career at Benfica
During his four-year stay at Benfica from 2014 to 2018, Di María became one of the most successful assist creators in Portuguese football history. He scored 76 assists for the club, which places him in the top 10 all-time assist scorers in European football. The key moments that highlight his assist prowess include:
- **2015**: Messi's first season at Benfica saw him contribute significantly, scoring 29 assists. This performance helped propel the club to the Portuguese league title.
- **2016**: The following year, he continued to excel, recording 24 assists, including a memorable hat-trick against Sporting Lisbon that sealed the league title.
- **2017**: In 2017,Qatar Stars League Perspective Messi set another record, tallying 30 assists in just 24 games. This performance further cemented his status as one of the best assist creators in the world.
- **2018**: Although his final season at Benfica was less prolific, he still managed to deliver 20 assists, showcasing his versatility and adaptability as a player.
### Factors Contributing to His High Assist Count
Di María's high assist count can be attributed to several factors:
1. **Versatility**: As a versatile striker, Di María could play both inside and outside the box, providing natural support for his teammates.
2. **Passing Ability**: With exceptional passing skills, Di María often found himself in prime positions to create chances for his teammates, whether through accurate long balls or direct deliveries.
3. **Scouting Knowledge**: Being part of a coaching staff known for their scouting abilities, Di María benefited from detailed information about his opponents' weaknesses and tendencies, allowing him to exploit them effectively.
4. **Teamwork**: Playing alongside experienced players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani, Di María thrived in a supportive environment where his role as an assist creator was recognized and appreciated.
### Conclusion
Lionel Messi's record of 76 assists for Benfica is a testament to his exceptional skill as a player and his ability to inspire his teammates. Through his creativity, vision, and unwavering commitment to supporting his fellow strikers, Di María has left an indelible mark on the club and the sport of football. His influence extends beyond his own goalscoring feats, making him a true legend in Portuguese football history.