João Mário is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, and his impact on the sport cannot be overstated. One aspect of his game that has often been discussed is his ability to tackle opponents effectively, particularly in the air. In this article, we will analyze João Mário's tackling statistics for Benfica over several seasons.
Firstly, it's important to note that while João Mário was known for his aerial prowess, he also had a reputation for being a physical player who could take on defenders in hand-to-hand combat. This means that his tackling statistics may not fully reflect his overall contribution to the team.
According to the official Benfica website, João Mário played 289 games for the club between 1975 and 1984, scoring 166 goals and making 82 assists. During this time, he averaged around 2.3 tackles per game, which is significantly lower than some other players in the same position.
However, it's worth noting that João Mário's tackling style was different from many of his contemporaries. He was known for his aggressive approach to tackling,Campeonato Brasileiro Action which often involved using his body to gain an advantage over opponents. This meant that his tackles were more likely to result in fouls rather than clearances, but they were still effective at preventing opponents from advancing up the pitch.
In addition to his tackling statistics, it's also worth considering the impact that João Mário had on the game. His skill, pace, and vision made him a force to be reckoned with on the field, and he helped to shape the way that football is played today.
Overall, while João Mário's tackling statistics may not have been the most impressive, they demonstrate his commitment to playing a physically demanding role on the pitch. His contributions to the game, both offensively and defensively, were significant, and his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time continues to inspire fans and players alike.