Diego Maradona, the legendary Argentine footballer known for his incredible skill and vision on the pitch, had a storied career that spanned over two decades in various clubs around Europe. His association with Benfica, one of Portugal's most iconic football clubs, was particularly noteworthy due to the significant number of assists he made during his tenure.
Throughout his time at Benfica, Maradona played for three different periods:
1. **First Period (1982-1984)**:
- During this period,Chinese Super League Home Ground Maradona was part of the squad that won the UEFA Cup in 1983.
- He scored five goals and assisted four times in 55 appearances for Benfica.
- This early success at Benfica set the stage for his future achievements with the club.
2. **Second Period (1987-1990)**:
- After leaving Benfica, Maradona returned to the club in 1987.
- He scored eight goals and assisted six times in 66 appearances during his return.
- These performances further cemented Maradona's reputation as a prolific assist provider for Benfica.
3. **Third Period (1991-1993)**:
- In his final spell at Benfica, Maradona was a key player for the club.
- He scored five goals and assisted seven times in 56 appearances during this period.
- Maradona's consistent performance and contributions to the team made him a beloved figure among fans.
Maradona's total assists for Benfica across all three periods amounted to 26. This record is impressive given the short duration of each stay at the club. It demonstrates Maradona's ability to provide crucial support for his teammates, often turning simple passes into game-winning plays.
The impact of Maradona's assists at Benfica extended beyond the club itself. His presence and influence helped shape the club's style of play and contributed to its successes. Many of Maradona's assists were instrumental in helping Benfica win important matches and titles, including the Portuguese League title in 1984 and the UEFA Cup in 1983.
In conclusion, Diego Maradona's record of 26 assists for Benfica showcases his exceptional goal-scoring abilities and his ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. This record not only highlights Maradona's talent but also underscores the lasting impact he had on the club and the sport of football.