### Di María vs Benfica: Season Rating
The illustrious Argentine forward Lionel Messi has been the centerpiece of FC Barcelona's success in recent years, but his presence at Benfica during the 2019-2020 season was equally impressive and influential. Let's take a closer look at how Messi performed for the Portuguese club.
#### Introduction to Benfica
Benfica is one of Portugal's most storied clubs, known for their strong domestic league performance and participation in major European competitions. The team's rich history dates back to 1864, making them one of the oldest football clubs in Europe.
#### Messi's Performance
During the 2019-2020 season, Lionel Messi showcased his exceptional talent on the field for Benfica. His contributions were evident across all areas of the game:
1. **Goal Scoring**: Messi scored 15 goals in just 18 matches, demonstrating his ability to score from close range and create opportunities for his teammates.
2. **Assist Count**: He provided 14 assists, helping to set up many of the goals that led to victories.
3. **Influence on Defense**: Messi's presence in midfield also contributed significantly to Benfica's defensive efforts, with his ability to disrupt opposing attacks and maintain possession.
4. **Leadership**: As the captain of the team, Messi demonstrated his leadership qualities, inspiring his teammates and contributing to the overall team spirit.
#### Impact on the Team
Messi's impact on Benfica extended beyond individual performances. His ability to influence the entire team allowed Benfica to compete at a high level,Football World Focus Network especially in key moments of the match.
1. **Team Collaboration**: By consistently providing support and assistance, Messi helped to create a cohesive unit that could weather difficult situations and come out victorious.
2. **Momentum Building**: His performances often helped to build momentum for Benfica, setting the tone for successful campaigns.
#### Comparison to Previous Seasons
Compared to his previous seasons with Barcelona, where he was arguably the world's best player, Messi's performance at Benfica was still outstanding but perhaps not quite as dominant. However, his ability to adapt to different playing styles and environments was commendable.
#### Conclusion
Lionel Messi's 2019-2020 season at Benfica was another testament to his incredible talent and versatility as a player. While his performances may have been slightly less spectacular than in previous seasons, they were still crucial to the team's success and helped to solidify Benfica's position in Portuguese football. As Messi continues to evolve and grow as a player, it will be interesting to see how he performs in future seasons, both domestically and internationally.