Catarina Isabel Silva Amado

Catarina Isabel Silva Amado is a standout right back for Benfica in the UEFA Women's Champions League. At 26 years old, she showcases consistent performance on the pitch, embodying the key traits of a "Progressor" player archetype. Although she hasn't notched any goals or assists in her six games, her impact extends beyond the traditional stats, as her playmaking abilities significantly influence the game structure of her team.

A closer look at Amado's performance metrics reveals her significant contributions through ball progression. With an average progressive carrying distance of 42.46 meters and a progressive passing distance of 102.8 meters per game, she plays a crucial role in transitioning the ball from defense to attack. Her ability to carry and distribute the ball forward effectively underpins Benfica's offensive strategies, offering options and creating space for her teammates. Though her expected goal (xG) rate per game of 0.02 indicates limited contribution to scoring plays directly, her involvement in the buildup is invaluable.

Defensively, Amado is equally reliable, maintaining a solid presence on the right flank. Her possession-adjusted statistics show she's making 2.66 interceptions and engaging in 5.6 challenges per game, boasting a challenge success rate of 58%. This demonstrates her ability to thwart opponent advances and regain possession, an aspect critical for a team aiming for high performance in prestigious tournaments like the UEFA Champions League. Her efforts in defense help stabilize the backline and initiate offensive transitions, underscoring her dual importance on the field.

Recognized for her playmaking skills, Amado holds a commendable playmaker rank of 1.5, signifying her as one of the top contributors on her team in this aspect. With an estimated transfer value of €208K, she represents a strategic asset for Benfica, providing a mix of experience and skill essential for competing on the European stage. Catarina Amado's playing style and effectiveness continue to make her an important figure in Portuguese women's football and a player to watch in the ongoing season.