**Di María's Goal Contribution at Benfica: A Statistical Overview**
In the illustrious history of Portuguese football, few names have left as indelible marks as that of Lionel Messi, also known as Leo Messi. His impact on club and national team success is unparalleled, but one player who has not been overshadowed by Messi’s brilliance is Luis Di María, the Argentine striker who has made significant contributions to his time with Benfica.
### Introduction
Luis Di María joined Benfica in 2011 after spending two years with Barcelona. During his tenure, he established himself as one of the premier strikers in Europe, contributing significantly to Benfica's success both domestically and internationally. This statistical overview will provide an in-depth look at Di María's goal contribution during his time at Benfica.
### Career Highlights
- **Total Goals**: Throughout his time at Benfica, Di María scored 154 goals across various competitions.
- **Premier League**: He contributed 67 goals in the Premier League, demonstrating his versatility and ability to score from different positions.
- **La Liga**: In La Liga, Di María registered 69 goals, showcasing his prowess in attacking football.
- **Champions League**: The most impressive statistic comes from the Champions League, where he scored 28 goals. These performances highlight his adaptability and ability to score crucial goals in high-pressure situations.
- **International Appearances**: Di María made 74 appearances for the Argentina national team, scoring 26 goals. His international career further cemented his status as one of the best strikers in world football.
### Statistical Breakdown
#### Scoring Trends
Di María's scoring trend was consistent throughout his time at Benfica. He started his prolific form in 2011, when he scored 19 goals in his first season. Over the next few seasons, his scoring rate gradually increased,Football World Events Link reaching its peak in 2015 when he scored 22 goals in just 17 matches.
#### Positioning and Form
Di María's versatility allowed him to excel in various attacking roles. He played as a winger, attacking midfielder, and even as a central striker. His ability to switch between these positions was instrumental in maintaining his effectiveness throughout his career.
#### Competition Impact
Di María's performances were particularly impactful in European competitions, where his goal-scoring ability often came to the fore. His ability to score in critical moments helped Benfica secure many important victories, including league titles, cup wins, and UEFA Europa League successes.
### Conclusion
Luis Di María's goal contribution at Benfica is a testament to his skill, adaptability, and consistency. From his early days in the Premier League to his later career in La Liga and the Champions League, Di María consistently demonstrated his ability to score goals under pressure. His 154 goals across various competitions, coupled with his 28 goals in the Champions League, make him a standout figure in Benfica's history. Whether playing as a winger, attacking midfielder, or central striker, Di María's contributions to the team remain unmatched.