### Otamendi's Goal Records in His Career with Benfica
Gonzalo Otamendi is a highly regarded defender who has made significant contributions to his club, Benfica. Throughout his career at the Portuguese giants, he has established numerous records and achieved remarkable success on the pitch. This article will delve into some of Otamendi’s most notable goal records during his time with Benfica.
#### Early Successes
Otamendi began his professional football journey at Benfica as a teenager in 2011. He quickly impressed with his technical skills and defensive prowess, earning regular starts for the youth team. In his first season with Benfica, he scored his first goal in September 2014 against Boavista, which helped Benfica secure their second consecutive Primeira Liga title that year.
#### Premier League Debut
In 2015, Otamendi had the opportunity to make his international debut for Spain. However, it was not until 2016 that he made his senior Premier League debut for Manchester City. Despite this early setback, his performance continued to impress, and by 2017,Football Wide Angle he had become a key player for Benfica once again.
#### National Team Service
Throughout his time at Benfica, Otamendi also represented his country on various occasions. He earned his first cap for the national team in March 2018 against Gibraltar, scoring the winning goal in a 2-0 victory. Since then, he has been a regular fixture in the Spanish national team, making several appearances in UEFA competitions such as Euro 2016 and the 2019 Copa America.
#### Goalscoring Achievements
While primarily known for his defensive role, Otamendi has also demonstrated his ability to score goals. One of his most memorable achievements came in February 2021 when he scored twice in a 3-1 win over Sporting CP. This goal helped Benfica clinch a crucial league match, securing them a spot in the top four and potentially qualifying them for European competition.
Another noteworthy record includes his tally of 13 goals across all competitions since joining Benfica. This number reflects his consistency and importance within the squad, particularly in recent seasons where he has played under manager Rui Vitória.
#### Conclusion
Gonzalo Otamendi’s tenure at Benfica has seen him achieve numerous accolades both domestically and internationally. From his early days as a teenager to becoming a cornerstone figure for the club, his impact cannot be overstated. With his goal-scoring record and dedication to the cause, Otamendi continues to leave a lasting legacy at Benfica and beyond.