# Otamendi's Impressive Tackle Record During His Benfica Career
## Introduction
Defensive prowess is a cornerstone of any successful football team, and few players have embodied this trait more than Portuguese defender João Mário Otamendi during his time at Benfica. Known for his aerial ability and tenacious tackling, Otamendi left a lasting impact on the club and its fans. This article delves into the statistics of his tackles during his tenure with Benfica, showcasing his remarkable defensive contributions.
## Tackle Mastery at Benfica
Otamendi joined Benfica in 2014, and his first season with the club was a testament to his defensive capabilities. In the 2014-2015 season, he made 87 tackles, a number that speaks volumes about his commitment to the team's backline. His tackle success rate during this campaign was an impressive 75%, which further highlighted his effectiveness in disrupting opponents' attacks.
## Rising Tackle Numbers
As the seasons progressed, Otamendi continued to improve his tackling statistics. In the 2015-2016 season,Focus on Football Network he increased his tackle count to 99, while maintaining a success rate of 72%. The following season, in 2016-2017, his tackle tally reached 108, with a success rate of 76%. It was evident that Otamendi was becoming an increasingly influential player for Benfica.
## Peak Performance
The 2017-2018 season was Otamendi's most successful in terms of tackles at Benfica. He made an incredible 120 tackles throughout the campaign, a testament to his relentless work ethic. His tackle success rate also reached a career-high of 80%, indicating his ability to make crucial interventions when it mattered most.
## Legacy at Benfica
Otamendi's time at Benfica was marked by a consistent and impressive tackling record. His 120 tackles in the 2017-2018 season are a testament to his defensive mastery. Moreover, his success rate of 80% during that season underscores his ability to execute vital tackles that prevented goals and kept Benfica in contention for titles.
## Conclusion
João Mário Otamendi's tackling record during his time at Benfica is a testament to his exceptional defensive skills. From his initial season with the club to his peak performance in the 2017-2018 season, Otamendi's ability to make crucial tackles and disrupt opponents' attacks left a lasting legacy at Benfica. His defensive contributions will long be remembered by the club and its fans.