# Rafa Silva's Assist Data at Benfica: A Statistical Breakdown
Rafa Silva, the Portuguese winger, has been a key contributor to SL Benfica's attacking play since joining the club in 2016. Known for his creativity, vision, and ability to deliver precise crosses, Silva has consistently been one of the team's top assist providers. This article delves into his assist data during his time at Benfica, highlighting his impact and consistency.
## Key Assist Statistics
During his four seasons at Benfica (2016-2020), Rafa Silva established himself as one of the most reliable playmakers in the Primeira Liga. Over this period, he accumulated **34 assists** in all competitions, averaging approximately **8.5 assists per season**. His creativity was not limited to league games, as he also contributed **8 assists** in European competitions, including the Champions League and Europa League.
Silva's most prolific season came in **2018-19**, where he recorded **10 assists** in the Primeira Liga alone, making him one of the top assist providers in the league that season. His ability to pick out teammates in dangerous positions was a hallmark of his game, and his crosses from the right flank often led to goals.
## Breakdown by Season
- **2016-17**: 7 assists (Primeira Liga: 5, Champions League: 2)
- **2017-18**: 8 assists (Primeira Liga: 6, Champions League: 2)
- **2018-19**: 10 assists (Primeira Liga: 8, Europa League: 2)
- **2019-20**: 9 assists (Primeira Liga: 7, Champions League: 2)
## Beyond the Numbers
While assists are a key metric for measuring Silva's contribution, his overall impact goes beyond the stats. He averaged **2.1 key passes per game** in the Primeira Liga, showcasing his ability to create chances consistently. Additionally, his dribbling skills and pace allowed him to beat defenders, further enhancing Benfica's attacking threat.
## Conclusion
Rafa Silva's assist data at Benfica underscores his importance to the team during his tenure. His consistency, vision, and ability to deliver in critical moments made him a fan favorite and a vital cog in Benfica's attacking machinery. While he has since moved on to other challenges, his contributions remain a testament to his quality as a playmaker.