**Di María's Season Rating at Benfica: A Performance Review**
In the intricate world of football, Di María has long been a formidable side, but their season performance at Benfica has been a subject of debate. The 2022-2023 season was marked by a mix of form, injuries, and external factors, making Di María's overall performance a complex matter to evaluate. This article delves into Di María's season rating at Benfica, examining key performance indicators, player contributions, and the broader implications for the team.
Di María has been on a consistent upward trend in recent months, with a strong record of wins and draws. In the first 18 matches, they have won eight games, drawn four, and lost five, placing them in the middle of the league table. The team's season has been marked by a steady improvement, with their most recent win at Benfica in the 18th match bringing their total to 15 wins. This consistent performance has been attributed to their attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
However, the season has also been affected by external factors. The COVID-19 pandemic, which began in early 2020 and was contained in late 2020, disrupted Di María's training and match preparation. This disrupted season has impacted their performance at Benfica, as they were unable to prepare for their match. The team's performance at Benfica has been inconsistent, with a higher likelihood of injuries and suspensions due to the ongoing pandemic.
Di María's captain has been a key factor in their recent form. In the 18th match, Di María's captain scored their 40th goal of the season, leading them to victory. The presence of Di María's top scorer, who has now scored 32 goals in all competitions, has been a significant advantage for the team. However, the most significant challenge has been the team's ability to maintain consistency in critical matches, particularly against stronger opponents like Benfica.
Benfica, on the other hand, has been a strong team, with a history of high quality matches. Di María's performance against Benfica has been inconsistent, with the team struggling to create chances and maintain possession. The team's inability to replicate Benfica's attacking style has been a recurring theme in their recent matches.
Given the recent season's trajectory, Di María's season rating at Benfica is likely to be lower than expected. The team's form has been inconsistent, with a higher likelihood of low-scoring matches and fewer chances to create goal. The impact of the pandemic has also been significant, as Di María's performance at Benfica has been affected by their inability to prepare for the disrupted training and match prep.
In conclusion, Di María's season rating at Benfica reflects their consistent form in recent matches but also highlights the challenges they face in maintaining that form. The team's ability to replicate Benfica's attacking style, combined with the impact of the pandemic, has created a challenging environment for Di María. While the team has shown promise in key areas, their overall performance will depend on their ability to maintain consistency and focus on their key players.