Lionel Messi's Assists Record: How Many Did He Score for Benfica?
### Lionel Messi's Assists Record: How Many Did He Score for Benfica?
**Introduction**
Lionel Messi, one of the greatest footballers of all time, has had a remarkable career with various clubs and countries. His contributions to his teams have been immense, not just in scoring goals but also in creating opportunities for teammates through assists. This article delves into Messi's assist record for Benfica, exploring how many assists he scored during his time with this iconic Portuguese club.
**Benfica Career Overview**
Before diving into the specifics of Messi's assist record at Benfica, it's important to note that he played for the club from 2016 to 2018. During this period, Benfica was led by manager Jorge Jesus, who was known for his tactical prowess and ability to create attacking chances.
**Assist Record at Benfica**
Under Jorge Jesus' guidance, Messi demonstrated his exceptional goal-scoring abilities while also becoming an integral part of Benfica's attacking midfield. Here are some key points about his assist record:
1. **Total Assists**: Messi recorded 15 assists for Benfica during his two-year stint at the club. This number is impressive considering the level of competition he faced at such a high-profile club like Benfica.
2. **Key Assist Contributions**: Some of Messi's most notable assists included:
- **Against Porto (2017)**: Messi delivered a crucial assist in a 2-0 victory over Porto,Ligue 1 Express helping the team secure their place in the UEFA Europa League.
- **Against Barcelona (2017)**: In a friendly match against Barcelona, Messi assisted Luis Suarez to score the winning goal in a 2-1 win.
- **Against Real Madrid (2017)**: Another highlight was an assist to Sergio Ramos in a 4-1 victory over Real Madrid, further solidifying Benfica's position as a formidable opponent.
3. **Impact on Team Performance**: Messi's assists were instrumental in helping Benfica maintain their high standards. They allowed the team to create numerous scoring opportunities, which contributed significantly to their success in both domestic and European competitions.
**Conclusion**
While Messi's overall assist record may be relatively low compared to his goalscoring statistics, his impact on Benfica was undeniable. His ability to distribute the ball effectively and provide space for his teammates to exploit made him a vital cog in the team's offensive machine. The 15 assists he scored for Benfica demonstrate his adaptability and skill in different situations, cementing his status as one of the best players of his generation.
This brief overview highlights the significant role Lionel Messi played in Benfica's history and provides insight into his contribution to the club's success through assists. As always, Messi's influence extends far beyond his individual achievements, making him a legend in the world of football.