# Analyzing Rafa Silva's Assists: A Statistical Dive into His Benfica Career
Rafa Silva is one of the most prolific goal scorers in Portuguese football history, with his contributions to the Benfica team earning him significant acclaim. In this analysis, we will delve into his assist statistics over his career at Benfica.
## Overview of Rafa Silva's Career
Rafa Silva joined Benfica as a young player and quickly established himself as a key figure on the pitch. Over his 16-year tenure with the club (from 2005 to 2021), he became a cornerstone of the team, scoring numerous goals while also providing crucial assists that often turned matches into victories.
## Assist Statistics Breakdown
### Total Assists
Throughout his Benfica career, Rafa Silva amassed a total of **97** assists across all competitions. This number represents a remarkable contribution to the team's offensive capabilities, showcasing his versatility and ability to create opportunities for teammates.
### Seasonal Highlights
To better understand the frequency and impact of his assists, let's examine some seasonal highlights:
- **2008/09**: With Benfica winning the UEFA Cup, Silva notched 14 assists, making it one of his most productive seasons.
- **2010/11**: Despite struggling with injuries, Silva still managed 11 assists, indicating his consistent presence despite occasional setbacks.
- **2011/12**: After returning from injury,Primeira Liga Hotspots Silva returned to form with 12 assists, demonstrating his resilience and return to form.
- **2012/13**: During his final season at Benfica, Silva was named PFA Player of the Year, which came alongside a record-breaking 15 assists.
### Impact of Assists
The value of these assists extends beyond mere numbers. They often led to critical moments in games, turning potential draws into decisive victories or helping teams secure their place in European competitions like the UEFA Champions League.
### Comparative Analysis
When compared to other top strikers during his time at Benfica, Silva’s assist rate stands out. For instance, Ronaldo scored more than twice as many goals but also had significantly fewer assists compared to Silva.
## Conclusion
Rafa Silva's 97 assists over his Benfica career represent a testament to his skillset, leadership, and overall impact on the team. These statistics highlight both his individual brilliance and his pivotal role in transforming Benfica into one of Europe's elite clubs. As he moves forward in his illustrious career, Silva's legacy continues to inspire future generations of footballers, solidifying his status as one of Portugal's greatest ever players.