**Rafa's Wing Defensive Performance at Benfica: A Comprehensive Analysis**
Rafa’s wing has been one of the most effective components of Benfica’s football, producing a strong number of goals and contributing significantly to the team’s success. However, the wing’s performance has not been without its challenges, particularly in the 2022/23 season. Despite its strengths, the wing struggled to maintain consistency, leading to several key issues that affected the team’s overall performance.
One of the most notable weaknesses at the wing was the inability to control the game. Benfica’s defense was inconsistent, with passes often being intercepted by opposing players, leading to defensive lapses. This resulted in a high number of clean sheets, with Benfica only managing to score 2 goals in the 2022-23 season. The wing’s inability to control passes was particularly concerning, as it could lead to dangerous situations for opposing teams.
Another significant issue with the wing was its lack of clear play. Even though Rafa’s wing had a strong attacking style, the wing itself lacked the ability to create or exploit chances. This led to multiple opportunities for Benfica to score, particularly from the opposition’s sides. The wing’s inability to exploit these chances contributed to Benfica’s low scoring rate.
Additionally, the wing’s performance was affected by external factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The pandemic disrupted training and game planning, leading to a decline in team performance and a lack of consistent defensive pressure at the wing. Although Benfica recovered from the pandemic, the impact was significant, and the wing’s performance remained inconsistent.
In conclusion, while Rafa’s wing was a vital part of Benfica’s success, its performance was not without its weaknesses. The wing struggled to control the game, lacked clear play, and was affected by external factors. Despite these issues, the wing’s contributions to the team’s success were substantial, and Rafa’s leadership and management of the wing were key to its success.