### João Mário's Assists for Benfica: A Career Highlight
In the world of Portuguese football, there is no player who has left as indelible an impact on Benfica as João Mário. The former Benfica midfielder, now in his retirement years, has become synonymous with the club and its legacy. His career at Benfica was marked by exceptional performances, particularly in the area of assists, which have played a crucial role in the team's success.
#### Early Beginnings and Rising Stars
Mário began his career at Benfica in 1994, joining from another Portuguese club, Porto. He quickly established himself as one of the team's key players under manager José Mourinho. During his time at Benfica, he made significant contributions to both the offense and defense, but it was his ability to assist that truly set him apart.
#### Assisting for Benfica
One of Mário's most notable achievements was his ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. He often found himself in prime positions to receive passes from his midfielders or forwards, then finding space to deliver them to their intended recipients. This skill allowed him to be a constant threat throughout the opposition's defensive line.
Throughout his tenure at Benfica, Mário assisted on numerous occasions. Some of his standout assists include:
- **1997**: In a match against Real Madrid, Mário provided an assist that led to Cristiano Ronaldo scoring the winner.
- **2006**: Against Manchester United, he assisted Luis Figo in what would be his last goal for Benfica before retiring.
- **2011**: In a crucial Champions League match against Chelsea, Mário assisted Fernando Torres to score the winning goal.
#### Impact on Benfica's Success
Mário's assists were instrumental in helping Benfica achieve many of its successes. Under Mourinho, they won several domestic titles, including three Liga Nacional championships (the Portuguese equivalent of the Premier League). His presence on the pitch also contributed to the club's reputation as one of Europe's top teams.
#### Retirement and Legacy
After retiring from professional football in 2018, Mário continued to remain involved with Benfica. He served as the club's vice-president until 2022, where he helped lead the club through challenging times during the COVID-19 pandemic. His contributions to the club extended beyond the playing field, making him an integral part of Benfica's history.
#### Conclusion
João Mário's assists for Benfica are a testament to his skill, creativity, and dedication to the sport. From his early days at Benfica to his retirement, he remained a pivotal figure in the club's success. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of footballers, ensuring that the spirit of Benfica remains alive and well.