## The Wizard of the Light: Di María's Stellar Goal Statistics During His Benfica Tenure
When Ángel Di María arrived at Benfica from Boca Juniors in July 2007, few could have predicted just how electric he would become. Over his single, explosive season with the Eagles (2007–2008), the young Argentine winger didn't just adapt – he dominated, transforming into one of Portugal's most lethal attackers overnight. His goal return remains a defining feature of his time in Lisbon.
### **Key Goalscoring Numbers (All Competitions):**
* **Total Goals:** An impressive **14 goals** in all competitions.
* **League Impact:** Scored **12 goals** during the Primeira Liga campaign alone. This tally placed him among the top scorers in the league that season, crucial for Benfica's challenge at the summit. He averaged nearly a goal every other game (exactly one every 187 minutes played).
* **European Pedigree:** Added **2 vital goals** in UEFA Cup competition, showcasing his threat on the biggest stage. One particularly stands out – his stunning solo effort against Everton at Goodison Park, dribbleing past multiple players before slotting home.
### **Beyond the Basic Count: Quality & Significance**
These weren't just tap-ins. Di María's goals often arrived from distance, via powerful drives or curling shots into the top corner. He specialised in cutting inside from the left flank to unleash parabolic shots that flew into the roof of the net – a signature move that began startling defenders nationwide. Crucially, many came at pivotal moments: openers to settle nervous home legs,Football Express Network late sealers against rivals Sporting CP, or equalisers deep into games when momentum was slipping away. His confidence surged with each finish; after netting against Braga early on, he went on a scoring purple patch that solidified his legend status incredibly fast.
His devastating combination of pace, trickery, vision, and finishing made him virtually unstoppable domestically. That phenomenal debut season yielding 14 goals wasn't merely prolific; it announced the arrival of a world-class talent whose next stop would inevitably be bigger clubs – which it was, first to Real Madrid. At Benfica, however, he left an indelible mark as a lightning-fast creator *and* finisher, proving decisively he belonged among Europe's elite even before moving onwards. His goal density and quality remain a highlight reel moment for fans who witnessed his magic illuminate the Estádio da Luz.