# Analyzing Rafa Silva's Passing Statistics for Benfica
Rafa Silva, one of the most influential midfielders in Portuguese football history, has had a remarkable career at Benfica. His passing statistics have consistently been among the best in European football, showcasing his exceptional skill and vision on the pitch. In this analysis, we will delve into the key aspects of Rafa Silva's passing performance for Benfica.
## Career Overview
Rafa Silva began his career with Benfica at a young age, joining the club in 2005 when he was just 16 years old. Over the past decade, he has become a cornerstone of the team, playing as a central midfielder. His tenure at Benfica has seen him accumulate numerous accolades and titles, including two UEFA Champions League trophies (in 2008 and 2017) and five Liga Nacional titles (from 2011 to 2015).
## Key Passing Statistics
### Accuracy
One of Rafa Silva's standout attributes is his high passing accuracy. He has consistently maintained a high percentage of accurate passes throughout his career. According to Opta data, Rafa Silva's average pass accuracy for all types of passes is over 94%, which places him among the top players in the world. This level of accuracy allows him to control the tempo of games and create opportunities for his teammates.
### Distribution
Rafa Silva excels at distributing the ball effectively, making it difficult for opponents to anticipate his movements. His distribution ability is particularly notable in long-distance plays and through tight spaces, where he can find space and deliver pinpoint crosses or accurate passes to his teammates. Opta data shows that Rafa Silva's average distance for successful passes is around 25 meters, demonstrating his precision and awareness.
### Crosses
One of Rafa Silva's most recognizable skills is his ability to take long-range crosses from deep inside the opponent's half. He has a reputation for delivering precise crosses that often lead to goals or assists. According to Opta data, Rafa Silva's average cross distance is around 40 meters, and his cross success rate is over 70%. These long-range crosses are crucial for maintaining possession and creating scoring opportunities.
### Ball Control
Rafa Silva possesses excellent ball control, allowing him to maintain possession of the ball even under pressure. His ball control skills enable him to evade defenders and make decisions quickly. Opta data shows that Rafa Silva's average dribble success rate is over 80%, indicating his confidence and ability to navigate complex situations on the field.
## Impact on Team Performance
Rafa Silva's passing statistics have had a significant impact on Benfica's overall performance. His ability to distribute the ball effectively, take precise crosses, and control the tempo of games has helped the team win many matches and secure their place in European competitions. His consistency in these areas has made him a valuable asset to any team he plays for.
## Conclusion
Rafa Silva's passing statistics for Benfica demonstrate his exceptional skill and vision on the pitch. His high accuracy, effective distribution, precise crosses, and ball control abilities have made him one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe. As he continues to play for Benfica, his legacy as a masterful passer will likely ensure that he remains one of the best midfielders in the sport for years to come.