Antóni Silva shines ahead of Benfica v Sporting showdown | OneFootball

António Silva is one of the central defenders who contributes most to game progression. In a study conducted by CIES and released this week, it is shown that the number 4 of Benfica is one of the most vertical center-backs competing in Europe, even ranking ahead of a rival currently playing for Sporting.

In a ranking compiled by the Football Observatory, which specializes in the study and analysis of data and statistics of the beautiful game, the Benfica center-back appears on the podium, occupying third place on the list, with a progression percentage that can reach up to 95.4 meters.

Together with António Silva, the podium is completed by two names who have shone in European football this season. Second place in the ranking is held by Álvaro Carreras’ teammate, Dean Huijsen (97.8 meters). The leader, meanwhile, is Jorne Spileers, who plays for Club Brugge (with a distance of 100 m).

It is worth noting that, in the same list published by CIES, the Benfica center-back — whose contract renewal has been complicated — stands out compared to Zeno Debast, Sporting’s number 6 and Benfica’s next opponent. The Belgian defender occupies 5th place, with a progression distance of 93.8 meters.

António Silva — currently valued at 32 million euros — has been one of José Mourinho’s key players. This season, the center-back has played 21 official matches so far, across domestic and European competitions. In the 1,795 minutes he has spent on the pitch, the center-back has delivered high-level performances.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.