# João Mário's Tackles at Benfica: A Look Back on His Career Statistics

In the illustrious history of Portuguese football, few names have left as indelible a mark as João Mário. Known for his formidable tackling prowess and exceptional defensive abilities, Mário has been instrumental in shaping Benfica's defensive structure over several decades. This article provides a comprehensive look back at João Mário's career statistics, highlighting his impact on the club's success.

## Early Career and Formative Years

Mário made his debut with Benfica in 1972 during the UEFA Cup season. Under the guidance of legendary coach Marcelo Vieira, he quickly established himself as one of the premier defenders in Portuguese football. His ability to dominate opponents on the ball and his robust presence on the field were immediately apparent.

### Key Defensive Performances

#### 1975-1976 Season

In his first full season, Mário was awarded the league title and the UEFA Cup. He played a pivotal role in Benfica's defense, making numerous tackles and interceptions that helped prevent goals. His leadership and physicality were evident throughout the campaign.

#### 1980s

Throughout the 1980s, Mário continued to excel in defense, earning him multiple league titles and European competitions. His reputation as a reliable defender grew, and he became a cornerstone of Benfica's defensive system.

### Career Highlights

#### 1990s

In the 1990s, Mário cemented his status as one of the best defenders in Europe. He won the Champions League twice, the UEFA Super Cup once, and the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup once. His defensive acumen and mental toughness were unmatched, and he often found himself playing alongside some of the greatest players in the world.

#### 2000s

Despite retiring from professional football in 2003,Football Hot News Desk Mário remained active in Benfica's youth academy, mentoring young defenders and helping to cultivate future stars.

## Statistical Overview

#### Tackles

- **Total Tackles**: Over his 24-year career, Mário made a staggering total of 14,200 tackles.

- **Average Tackles per Match**: On average, Mário completed 5 tackles per match across all competitions.

#### Interceptions

- **Total Interceptions**: Mário intercepted 1,500 passes during his career.

- **Average Interceptions per Match**: He had around 0.7 interceptions per match.

#### Goals Against

- **Goals Against**: In his prime years, Mário allowed just 1 goal per game, showcasing his exceptional defensive skills.

#### Matches Played

- **Total Matches Played**: Mário played in 438 matches for Benfica across all competitions, including 357 league games and 81 cups.

## Conclusion

João Mário's career at Benfica is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. His impressive tackle count, combined with his ability to intercept passes and prevent goals, earned him widespread recognition both domestically and internationally. Despite retiring from professional football, Mário's legacy lives on through his contributions to Benfica's defense and his impact on the Portuguese national team.

As we look back on his career, it becomes clear that João Mário's tactical vision and physical presence on the pitch will always be remembered as one of the defining characteristics of Benfica's defensive philosophy. His influence extends far beyond the field, leaving a lasting legacy in the annals of Portuguese football history.

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