Al Ittihad's Statistical Analysis of Benzema's Playing Time
# Al Ittihad's Statistical Analysis of Benzema's Playing Time
Karim Benzema, the French striker, has been a key player for Al Ittihad since his transfer to the Saudi Pro League. The club's analytics team has conducted a detailed statistical analysis of Benzema's playing time to assess his impact, fitness, and overall contribution to the team.
## Playing Time Overview
Benzema has consistently featured in the starting lineup, averaging 78 minutes per match in the league. His playing time reflects his importance to the team, as he has been involved in over 40% of Al Ittihad's goals this season. The data shows that when Benzema plays more than 70 minutes, the team's chances of winning increase by 25%.
## Injury and Fitness Trends
Despite his advanced age for a footballer, Benzema has maintained a high level of fitness. He has missed only two games due to minor injuries, and his recovery rate has been impressive. The analytics team has noted that his average sprint distance and high-intensity runs per game have remained consistent, indicating his ability to maintain elite physical conditioning.
## Tactical Impact
Statistically, Benzema's presence on the field significantly influences Al Ittihad's attacking efficiency. When he is on the pitch, the team records a higher pass completion rate in the final third (82%) compared to when he is substituted (75%). Additionally, his ability to hold up the ball and create chances has led to an average of 2.5 key passes per game.
## Conclusion
Al Ittihad's statistical analysis highlights Benzema's pivotal role in the team's success. His playing time, fitness, and tactical contributions make him indispensable. As the season progresses, managing his minutes will be crucial to ensuring his longevity and maintaining the team's competitive edge.