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**Rafinha's Goal Efficiency at Benfica: An Analysis of His Goals Made and Unmade**
**Introduction**
Rafinha, a versatile forward who plays as a central attacker or winger, has been a key asset for Benfica since joining the club in 2018. Known for his speed, dribbling ability, and work rate, Rafinha has consistently contributed to the team's offensive play. However, his efficiency in front of goal has been a topic of debate. This analysis examines Rafinha's goal-scoring performance, including both his made and unmade opportunities, to evaluate his overall impact at Benfica.
**Key Metrics: Rafinha's Goal-Scoring Performance**
Over the past three seasons, Rafinha has scored 35 goals in 88 appearances for Benfica. His goal-scoring rate stands at approximately 0.40 goals per game, which is slightly below the average for a forward in Europe's top leagues. However, it's important to contextualize this by considering the quality of his chances and the role he plays in the team.
**Assessing Rafinha's Goal Efficiency**
One of Rafinha's strengths is his ability to create chances through his dribbling and unmarked positions. He often drifts into the final third, drawing defenders and creating space for teammates. However, his finishing has been inconsistent. While he has scored some stunning goals, including a celebrated overhead kick against Porto in 2021, he has also missed several clear-cut opportunities.
To better understand his efficiency, it's worth comparing Rafinha to his teammates. For example,Ligue 1 Snapshot Benfica's leading scorer last season scored 26 goals in 34 appearances, a rate of 0.76 goals per game. Rafinha's 0.40 goal rate is significantly lower, suggesting that while he creates chances, he does not always convert them at the highest level. Additionally, Rafinha has a tendency to shoot from outside the box, which can reduce his effectiveness in certain scenarios.
**Beyond Goals: Rafinha's Influence on the Team**
It's essential to evaluate Rafinha's impact beyond his goals. His ability to draw defenders and carry the ball forward opens up spaces for teammates, which indirectly benefits the team's attacking play. For instance, his unmarked runs have created opportunities for wingers and central midfielders to score. Moreover, Rafinha's work rate and defensive contributions are often overlooked, as he frequently tracks back to help in midfield.
**Conclusion**
While Rafinha's goal efficiency may not match the highest standards, his overall impact on Benfica is undeniable. His ability to create chances, work rate, and defensive awareness make him a valuable asset. However, to reach the next level, Rafinha will need to improve his finishing and capitalize on the opportunities that his work rate and creativity create. With continued focus and consistency, Rafinha has the potential to become one of Benfica's most important players in the coming seasons.