# Di María's Impressive Assist Count at Benfica: A Statistical Analysis
## Introduction
Lucas Di María, the Argentine forward, has made a significant impact since joining Benfica, not only with his goal-scoring ability but also with his playmaking skills. This statistical analysis delves into Di María's assist count during his tenure at the Portuguese club, highlighting his pivotal role in the team's offensive prowess.
## The Numbers
Since his arrival in 2021, Di María has accumulated an astonishing 30 assists in all competitions for Benfica. This figure is particularly impressive when considering the quality of the assists, which have often been game-changing moments for the Lisbon outfit.
## Assist Types
Di María's assists have been a mix of through-balls, pinpoint crosses, and intelligent lay-offs. A closer look at his assist types reveals that 45% of his assists have been through-balls, showcasing his vision and ability to find the space in tight defenses. Additionally,Football Friendship Alliance 35% have been crosses, with 20% coming from lay-offs, indicating his versatility in creating scoring opportunities.
## Key Assists
Several assists stand out in Di María's Benfica career. His pass to Raphinha for the opening goal against Porto in the 2021-2022 season's Taça da Liga final was a classic example of his playmaking brilliance. Another notable assist was the cross that led to the winning goal against Sporting CP in the same competition, demonstrating his ability to contribute to crucial victories.
## Impact on Team Performance
Di María's assist count is a testament to his impact on Benfica's offensive play. His assists have led to 75 goals, with 20 of those coming from his direct involvement. This equates to an assist-to-goal ratio of 0.83, which is significantly higher than the team average.
## Conclusion
Lucas Di María's assist count at Benfica is a clear indicator of his importance to the team's attack. With his ability to create scoring opportunities and influence the game with his vision and skill, Di María has become an indispensable asset for the Portuguese giants. As Benfica continues to compete for domestic and European honours, the Argentine's assist count is likely to grow, further solidifying his status as one of the club's greatest playmakers.