# João Mário's Tackle Statistics: Benfica Highlights
João Mário is one of the most renowned defenders in Portuguese football history, known for his exceptional tackling abilities and defensive prowess. His contributions to Benfica have been instrumental in shaping the club's success over the years. In this article, we will delve into some of João Mário's standout tackle statistics while highlighting his impact on Benfica's performance.
## João Mário's Career Overview
João Mário was born on July 22, 1964, in Porto, Portugal. He began his career at Benfica as a defender before moving to Manchester United in 1987. During his time at United, he made significant contributions to the team's defense, earning him numerous accolades and playing a crucial role in several Premier League titles.
### Key Defensive Achievements
- **Premier League Titles:** Mário won two Premier League titles with Manchester United (1989-1990 and 1991-1992).
- **UEFA Champions League:** The Brazilian international also lifted the UEFA Champions League twice with the Red Devils (1990-1991 and 1991-1992).
## Tackle Statistics
Here are some key tackle statistics that demonstrate João Mário's defensive capabilities:
1. **Total Tackles:** Over his career, Mário recorded over 5,000 tackles, making him one of the top tacklers in European football history.
2. **Successful Tackles:** He had a remarkable record of successful tackles, completing over 80% of his attempts.
3. **Aerial Tackles:** Mário was known for his aerial prowess, making numerous successful aerial tackles throughout his career.
4. **Tackle Distribution:** He consistently distributed tackles effectively, helping his teammates win possession and maintain control of the ball.
5. **Defensive Interceptions:** Mário had a high number of defensive interceptions, which helped prevent opposing teams from scoring.
## Impact on Benfica
João Mário's presence at Benfica was crucial in the club's success during the 1990s. His robust defense allowed the club to defend against some of the best attacking players in Europe, such as Zinedine Zidane, Marco van Basten, and Thierry Henry.
### Benfica's Success Under Mário
- **European Championships:** Benfica reached the final of the 1994 FIFA World Cup after winning the Portuguese league and reaching the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League.
- **La Liga Titles:** The club won four La Liga titles between 1990 and 1994, cementing their status as one of the most dominant teams in Spanish football.
- **Domestic Success:** Benfica also won the Portuguese league five times during Mário's tenure, further solidifying their position as champions.
## Conclusion
João Mário's tackle statistics reflect his exceptional defensive skills and dedication to the sport. His ability to make crucial tackles, both on the ground and in the air, has been a hallmark of his career. His impact on Benfica's success during the 1990s cannot be overstated, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of defenders. As one of the greatest defenders in European football history, João Mário remains a symbol of excellence and commitment to the game.