# Vitinha's Pass Success Rate Analysis at Atlético Madrid
Vitinha, a pivotal figure in Atlético Madrid's midfield, has been under scrutiny for his pass success rate this season. Known for his creativity and vision, Vitinha's ability to break defenses with precise passes has been a cornerstone of Diego Simeone's system. However, his pass accuracy has been a topic of debate, with some critics arguing that it has dipped below expectations.
### Pass Types and Success Rate
Vitinha's pass success rate is measured across different types of passes: long balls, lateral passes, and through balls. This season, Vitinha has completed 65% of his passes, slightly below his career average of 68%. While this isn't a significant drop, it's worth examining the context.
Long balls account for a large portion of Vitinha's passes, and he has completed 70% of them. This is crucial because Atlético Madrid often relies on quick transitions and long-range passes to bypass defensive blocks. Lateral passes,Football World Events Link which are shorter and often used to maintain possession, have a slightly lower success rate of 62%. Through balls, which require pinpoint accuracy to release attackers, have a success rate of 58%.
### Impact on Team Performance
Despite the slight dip, Vitinha's ability to deliver decisive passes has been instrumental in creating scoring opportunities. For instance, his through ball for Ángel Correa's goal against Real Sociedad was a moment of class. His long balls have often found the forward runners in attack, providing a different dimension to Atlético's play.
### Factors Affecting Pass Success
Vitinha's pass success isn't just about statistics; it's also about context. He often faces intense defensive pressure, especially when Atleti are trying to maintain possession in tight areas. Additionally, opposition tactics aimed at closing down central lanes can limit his ability to deliver pinpoint passes.
### Conclusion
Vitinha's pass success rate may fluctuate, but his role in Atlético Madrid's attack cannot be overstated. His ability to read the game and deliver critical passes ensures he remains a valuable asset, even if there are moments where the numbers don't lie. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see if Vitinha can maintain or even improve his pass accuracy while continuing to influence games at the highest level.