Key Assists by Marquinhos at São Paulo
### Key Assists by Marquinhos at São Paulo
Marquinhos, the Brazilian midfielder for FC Barcelona and Sao Paulo, has become one of the most versatile players in world football. His ability to play both as a defensive midfielder and a central midfielder has made him a key player for his club. In this article, we will explore some of the standout assists that Marquinhos has delivered during his time with Sao Paulo.
#### Defensive Midfielder Role
In his role as a defensive midfielder, Marquinhos has consistently been a rock for Sao Paulo. He is known for his robust presence and tireless work rate. One of his most notable defensive contributions was in the Copa Libertadores final against Flamengo in 2018. Marquinhos played a crucial role in breaking down Flamengo's attack, leading to a goal for Sao Paulo and securing the trophy.
#### Central Midfielder Role
When playing as a central midfielder, Marquinhos has demonstrated his versatility and attacking prowess. He is adept at creating scoring opportunities and distributing the ball effectively. During the 2021 season, Marquinhos was instrumental in Sao Paulo's run to the Copa Libertadores semi-finals. His accurate passing and ability to link up play were key factors in the team's success.
#### Specific Assists
Here are a few specific examples of Marquinhos' assists:
1. **Copa Libertadores Final (2018)**: Marquinhos provided an assist for the winning goal against Flamengo in the Copa Libertadores final. His precise pass set up a goal-scoring opportunity for Luis Suarez.
2. **Sao Paulo vs. Palmeiras (2021)**: In a match against Palmeiras, Marquinhos assisted Joao Vitor for a crucial goal. This assist helped Sao Paulo secure their place in the Copa Libertadores semi-finals.
3. **São Paulo vs. Santos (2021)**: Marquinhos played a pivotal role in Sao Paulo's victory over Santos in the Copa do Brasil. His cross from the left wing found Lucas Paquetá, who scored the winner.
4. **Sao Paulo vs. River Plate (2022)**: In the first leg of the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals against River Plate, Marquinhos assisted Lucas Paquetá again. This assist contributed significantly to Sao Paulo's chances of advancing to the next round.
#### Conclusion
Marquinhos' contributions to Sao Paulo have been significant, particularly in the areas of defensive midfielding and central midfielding. His ability to read the game, make decisions under pressure, and create opportunities for others have earned him recognition as one of the best midfielders in the world. Whether he is playing defensively or offensively, Marquinhos remains a vital part of the Sao Paulo squad, helping the team achieve its goals and compete at the highest level.