# Angel Di María's Stellar Performance for Benfica
In the realm of European football, few players have captured the imagination quite like Angel Di María. The Argentine forward has become one of the most sought-after talents in the world, known for his exceptional skills and ability to score goals at will. His journey with Benfica is a testament to his talent and dedication, as he has consistently delivered stellar performances that have earned him numerous accolades.
## Introduction to Angel Di María
Angel Di María was born on July 22, 1990, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He began his career with Independiente del Valle, where he quickly established himself as a promising young talent. In 2010, he joined Barcelona, where he made his debut in La Liga. However, it was not until 2012 that Di María truly emerged as a force in the sport when he signed with Real Madrid.
## Di María's Journey with Benfica
Di María's move to Benfica came as a surprise to many, but it proved to be a wise decision. The Portuguese club had been struggling under the management of Jose Mourinho, who had previously struggled with injuries and poor form. Di María's arrival brought much-needed stability and excitement to the team.
One of the reasons why Di María has flourished at Benfica is his adaptability. He has seamlessly integrated into the team's style of play and has shown a willingness to sacrifice for the greater good. His ability to read the game and make intelligent decisions has made him a valuable asset to the squad.
## A Showcase of Talent
Di María's performance for Benfica has been nothing short of spectacular. In his first season with the club, he scored 27 goals in 34 appearances, which included a hat-trick against Athletic Bilbao. This impressive tally helped Benfica secure their place in the Champions League group stage, where they faced some of the best teams in Europe.
Since then, Di María has continued to excel, scoring 16 more goals in 35 matches during the 2018-19 season. His goal-scoring record has been so strong that he has been named the Portuguese Player of the Year multiple times.
## Key Highlights from Di María's Career
- **Champions League Group Stage**: Di María scored 27 goals in 34 appearances, helping Benfica qualify for the Champions League.
- **Portuguese Player of the Year**: Di María has won this award three times, cementing his status as one of the top forwards in the country.
- **Goalscorer of the Month**: Di María has been named the Goalscorer of the Month several times throughout his career, including two in 2018.
- **International Appearances**: Di María has represented Argentina at the international level, scoring 17 goals in 36 appearances.
## Conclusion
Angel Di María's stellar performance for Benfica is a testament to his exceptional talent and commitment to the sport. His ability to score goals at will and his adaptability to different playing styles have made him a valuable asset to the team. As he continues to evolve as a player, Di María remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional football.