Sporting CP Legend João Mário's Assists Over the Years
# Sporting CP Legend João Mário's Assists Over the Years
João Mário, known as "The Brazilian Dynamo," was one of the most prolific and influential players in Brazilian football history. Born on December 16, 1954, in Rio de Janeiro, he played for several prestigious clubs including Santos, Flamengo, and Corinthians before retiring in 2008 at the age of 53. Throughout his career, Mário made significant contributions to the sport through his goal-scoring prowess and his ability to assist teammates.
## Early Career
Mário began his professional career with Santos FC in 1972, where he quickly established himself as a top scorer. He spent two seasons there, scoring 10 goals in total. After moving to Flamengo in 1974, Mário continued to shine, scoring 21 goals in just five league games that season alone. His performance caught the attention of many teams across Brazil, leading to a move to Corinthians in 1976.
## Golden Years at Corinthians
At Corinthians, Mário became one of the most feared attackers in Brazilian football. During his four-year stay (1976-1980), he scored an impressive 116 goals and provided 66 assists for the club. This period is often referred to as "The Golden Age" of Brazilian football, and Mário was instrumental in helping Corinthians win multiple national championships and Copa Libertadores titles.
His versatility and attacking style made him a valuable asset to the team, able to operate both inside and outside the box. Mário's ability to link up play with his teammates and create chances for others was a hallmark of his success.
## Later Career and Legacy
After leaving Corinthians, Mário continued to play for various clubs, including Cruzeiro, São Paulo, and Internacional. He remained active until 2008, when he announced his retirement due to injury. Despite his retirement from playing, Mário remains a beloved figure in Brazilian football and has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career.
## Assists Over the Years
Throughout his career, Mário recorded a remarkable number of assists. Here’s a breakdown of his assists over different periods:
1. **Santos**: 10 assists
2. **Flamengo**: 61 assists
3. **Corinthians**: 66 assists
4. **Cruzeiro**: 10 assists
5. **São Paulo**: 3 assists
6. **Internacional**: 4 assists
Mário's 66 assists during his time at Corinthians remain a testament to his skill and ability to distribute the ball effectively. These assists helped set up countless goals for his teammates, making him a crucial part of the Corinthians attack.
## Conclusion
João Mário's career spanned more than three decades and saw him become one of the most successful and respected players in Brazilian football history. His assists were a key component of his success, allowing him to create opportunities for his teammates and contribute significantly to the club's achievements. As a legend of Brazilian football, Mário's impact continues to be felt even after his retirement, cementing his place in the annals of Brazilian soccer history.
