# Di María Season Rating Against Benfica
In the highly competitive world of football, players often face significant challenges when playing against certain teams or in specific leagues. One such challenge is facing Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus at Benfica, one of Portugal's most successful and respected clubs.
## Introduction
Gabriel Jesus has become one of the brightest young talents in European football, with his impressive performances for Manchester City earning him widespread recognition. His arrival at Benfica in the summer of 2018 was expected to bring fresh energy and excitement to the Portuguese club. However, his impact on the team has been mixed, with some critics suggesting that he may not be as dominant as initially hoped.
## Di María's Performance Against Benfica
During his time at Benfica, Gabriel Jesus has managed to score several goals, including two crucial strikes in the UEFA Champions League. However, his overall performance has not matched expectations. According to statistics from Opta, Di María has played 59 minutes in total during his time at Benfica this season, scoring 2 goals and assisting 2 more.
While Di María's contributions have been valuable, they have not been enough to compensate for the loss of Luis Suarez,Campeonato Brasileiro Action who left the club in June 2021. The absence of Suarez has had a significant impact on the team's attacking options, making it difficult for Di María to find space and exploit his talent.
## Analysis
One key factor in Di María's poor performance against Benfica is his inability to match the pace and skill of Suarez. While Di María is known for his dribbling and finishing ability, he lacks the physical presence and strength of Suarez. This has made it challenging for him to create chances and control the game.
Another issue is Di María's reliance on his technical skills rather than his physical attributes. In the past, Di María has relied heavily on his shooting accuracy and ability to read the game, but this approach has not worked as well against Benfica, where the defensive structure is more robust.
## Conclusion
While Gabriel Jesus has made an impact at Benfica, his overall performance has been disappointing compared to what was initially expected. His inability to match the pace and skill of Suarez has made it difficult for him to create chances and control the game. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how Di María adapts to the new circumstances and whether he can improve his performance against Benfica. Ultimately, the success of any player depends on a combination of factors, including their individual abilities, the quality of their teammates, and the overall strategy of their team.