### Di Maria's Statistical Analysis: Evaluating His Attacking Performance at Benfica

#### Introduction

In the realm of football statistics, one of the most notable aspects is the analysis of player performance across different positions and seasons. One such statistic that has garnered significant attention in recent years is Di Maria’s statistical evaluation for Benfica. This article delves into how Di Maria’s performances were analyzed to determine his overall attacking ability, focusing on his contributions during the 2018-2019 season.

#### Background of Di Maria

Di Maria is a prolific forward who has been instrumental in Benfica’s success over the past decade. Born in Portugal, he was selected as the first choice striker at the age of 17. Over the course of his career, Di Maria has made a significant impact both domestically and internationally, contributing to several team titles and winning the UEFA Champions League twice.

#### Season Evaluation

The 2018-2019 season saw Di Maria showcase his talents under the tutelage of coach Carlos Moya. In this period, he demonstrated his versatility and adaptability, showcasing his skills across various positions including center back, central midfielder, and forward. His goal-scoring abilities remained strong, with a total of 54 goals scored across all competitions.

#### Defending Against Pressure

One aspect of Di Maria’s performance stood out in the defense against pressure. Throughout the season, he consistently provided support to his teammates, often playing alongside them or providing cover when needed. This defensive presence contributed significantly to Benfica’s defense, particularly in the opening stages of matches where they faced challenging opponents like Porto and Barcelona.

#### Key Performances

Several standout moments from Di Maria’s season include:

1. **Goal Scoring**: Di Maria scored 26 times across the entire campaign, setting a new record for consecutive goals (26) in a single season.

2. **Defensive Contribution**: His defensive play was crucial, helping to contain opposing teams effectively.

3. **Team Support**: He provided invaluable support to his teammates, especially in difficult situations.

#### Impact on Team Dynamics

Di Maria’s performances had a profound impact on Benfica’s performance. His consistent scoring helped stabilize their defensive structure, which was vital given the competition level. The defense’s resilience allowed Benfica to maintain a high level of competitiveness throughout the season, ultimately securing their position in the top flight.

#### Challenges and Criticisms

While Di Maria’s contributions were impressive, there were also some challenges. His lack of creativity and occasional off-field incidents during games highlighted areas for improvement. However, these points underscored the importance of having a well-rounded striker capable of delivering consistent performances across different facets of the game.

#### Conclusion

Di Maria’s statistical analysis provides valuable insights into his attacking capabilities during the 2018-2019 season at Benfica. His goal-scoring prowess, combined with his defensive solidity, played a critical role in maintaining Benfica’s competitive edge. As Di Maria continues to develop, it will be interesting to see how his continued performance aligns with his strategic vision and the evolving demands of the Premier League.

#### References

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