# Di María's Goal Statistics at Benfica: A Comprehensive Analysis of His Performance

In the realm of football, few players have had as significant an impact on their club and country as Lionel Messi. For Spanish giants Benfica, Messi has been instrumental in shaping the team’s fortunes over the years, scoring numerous goals that have cemented his status as one of the greatest strikers of all time.

## Introduction to Di María's Career with Benfica

Lionel Messi began his career with Benfica in 2006, joining from Barcelona after a successful stint at Real Madrid. Since then, he has become one of the most prolific goal scorers in European football history, making 147 appearances for the club and netting 95 goals. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a detailed look at Di María's goal statistics during his tenure at Benfica, highlighting his performance and its significance.

## Key Goals Achievements

### Seasonal Breakdown

- **2008/09**: Messi scored 23 goals, including 14 assists.

- **2009/10**: He added another 17 goals, showcasing his versatility and ability to score both from set pieces and direct play.

- **2010/11**: With 18 goals and 9 assists, Messi continued to be a dominant force in the league.

- **2011/12**: The season saw him tally 20 goals, which included a memorable hat-trick against Manchester United.

- **2012/13**: In what many consider his finest season, Messi scored 25 goals, including 11 assists, leading Benfica to the Portuguese title.

- **2013/14**: He maintained his high level, scoring 21 goals and 10 assists.

- **2014/15**: The following season saw him finish with 19 goals and 12 assists, solidifying his position as a top striker.

- **2015/16**: Another productive campaign saw him score 21 goals and 13 assists, contributing significantly to Benfica’s success.

- **2016/17**: The 2016–17 season marked a decline in Messi's form, but he still managed to contribute with 18 goals and 12 assists.

- **2017/18**: He ended the season with 15 goals and 12 assists,Chinese Super League Matches maintaining his consistency despite a drop in form.

- **2018/19**: In the final year of his contract with Benfica, Messi scored 14 goals and 12 assists, helping the club secure the Portuguese league title once again.

- **2019/20**: The 2019–20 season was less successful, with Messi recording only 11 goals and 10 assists.

- **2020/21**: Despite the pandemic, Messi returned to form, scoring 14 goals and 10 assists, helping Benfica reach the Champions League semifinals.

### Individual Highlights

- **Champions League Semifinals**: In the 2020–21 season, Messi scored two goals and provided two assists in the group stage of the Champions League, helping Benfica qualify for the knockout rounds.

- **Copa del Rey Final**: In the 2019–20 Copa del Rey final, Messi scored twice and provided one assist, securing the trophy for Benfica.

- **Portuguese Super Cup Final**: In the 2018–19 Portuguese Super Cup final, Messi scored three goals and provided two assists, helping Benfica win the competition.

## Impact on Benfica's Success

Di María's goal statistics have played a crucial role in Benfica's overall success. His ability to score consistently and provide assists has made him a vital part of the team's attack, often elevating the morale and confidence of his teammates. His performances have also contributed to Benfica's ability to achieve major achievements, such as winning the Portuguese league title multiple times and reaching the Champions League semifinals.

## Conclusion

Lionel Messi's goal statistics at Benfica are nothing short of impressive, demonstrating his incredible talent and contribution to the club. From his early days at the club to his peak seasons, Messi has consistently scored goals and provided assists, making him a cornerstone of Benfica's attacking line. His performances have not only helped the club win numerous titles but have also earned him recognition as one of the greatest strikers in football history.

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