Pedro Gonçalves is one of the most recognizable and prolific goal scorers in football history. He has scored over 110 goals for Portugal's national team, including two Golden Ball awards as a player and one as a coach. This article will provide a statistical overview of Pedro Gonçalves' career, focusing on his assists (goals from outside the penalty area) during his time with Sporting CP.
**Assist Statistics:**
- **Goalies:** Pedro Gonçalves was primarily a goalkeeper throughout his career, making up 77% of his total appearances. His assist rate is slightly higher compared to other Portuguese players, averaging around 56%.
- **Defenders:** In addition to being a goal scorer, he also provided numerous assists. Defenders accounted for 22% of his total appearances. However, defenders were less active in scoring compared to goalkeepers, leading to a lower overall assist rate.
- **Midfielders:** Midfielders made up about 9% of his total appearances, which contributed to his assist rate. While midfielders can score goals, they are not typically considered key strikers like goalkeepers or forwards. Their contributions were more limited.
- **Attackers:** The remaining percentage (around 4%) consisted of attacking players who could potentially contribute to the goal but did not always score directly. These include defenders,Campeonato Brasileiro Action midfielders, and even some forwards who might have assisted their teammates but rarely had the final say in scoring.
**Career Highlights:**
- **Golden Ball Awards:** Pedro Gonçalves received three Golden Ball awards during his career. Each award represented a significant milestone in his playing career, reflecting both his technical skill and tactical acumen.
- **International Success:** At the international level, he played for Portugal at the World Cup, where he scored against France and Spain. His performances in these matches highlighted his ability to contribute to the team’s success despite not being the primary striker.
- **Cup Achievements:** During his time with Sporting CP, he helped Portugal reach the quarterfinals of the UEFA European Championship, showcasing his potential as a forward who could contribute to the team’s victory.
**Impact and Legacy:**
Pedro Gonçalves’ statistics reflect the importance of his role in Portugal’s football legacy. His assist rates underscored the value of his defensive abilities, while his focus on providing assists showed that he was capable of contributing significantly beyond his initial responsibilities.
In conclusion, Pedro Gonçalves’ assist statistics highlight the versatility and impact of his play, demonstrating his ability to be a versatile striker capable of scoring goals while also contributing to the team’s defense. His career highlights the significance of his contributions to Portugal’s achievements and the sport of football globally.