Di María's Playing Time at Benfica: A Comprehensive Statistical Overview
### Di María's Playing Time at Benfica: A Comprehensive Statistical Overview
In the world of football, Diego Maradona is one of the most celebrated players of all time. His tenure with Benfica in Lisbon from 1997 to 2004 was marked by his exceptional skills and leadership on the field. This comprehensive statistical overview aims to provide a detailed insight into Di María's playing time during his time at Benfica.
#### Career Overview
Diego Maradona began his career at Benfica in 1997, shortly after joining the club from Argentina's Boca Juniors. He made his debut for Benfica in their friendly match against Real Madrid on November 15, 1997. Over the next seven years, he established himself as one of Benfica's key players, making numerous appearances and contributing significantly to the team's success.
#### Regular Season Matches
During his time at Benfica, Maradona played in 36 regular season matches. Out of these, he scored 18 goals and provided 10 assists, showcasing his scoring prowess and creative abilities. His goal-scoring record was particularly impressive, with six goals coming in the first half of his tenure (from January 1, 1997, to June 30, 2000). These early goals set the tone for his remarkable performances throughout his stay at Benfica.
#### Champions League Matches
Maradona also contributed to Benfica's success in the UEFA Champions League. He participated in 13 Champions League matches, scoring three goals and providing two assists. His performance in the Champions League was instrumental in Benfica's qualification for the final in 2000, where they lost to Bayern Munich.
#### Total Matches Played
Throughout his entire time at Benfica, including pre-season games, training sessions, and friendly matches, Maradona played a total of 49 matches. This number includes his performances for other clubs like Inter Milan and Juventus before returning to Benfica in 2004.
#### Key Moments
One of the standout moments of Maradona's time at Benfica was his iconic "Hand of God" goal against England in the 1998 World Cup quarterfinal. This goal, which earned him the Golden Ball award that year, showcased his exceptional talent and creativity.
#### Legacy
Despite leaving Benfica in 2004, Maradona's impact on the club remains significant. His contributions to the team's success, both on and off the pitch, have cemented his place in football history. The legacy of his time at Benfica continues to be felt through the club's continued success under various managers and the admiration of fans around the world.
In conclusion, Diego Maradona's playing time at Benfica was marked by excellence and contribution to the club's success. From his early goals to his memorable Champions League performances, Maradona's time at Benfica left a lasting impression on the club and the sport as a whole.
