# Lionel Messi vs. Benzema: Who Played More in Al Nassr Matches?

When Lionel Messi joined Al Nassr in 2023, the football world witnessed one of the most anticipated arrivals in recent history. The Argentine maestro, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, brought his extraordinary talent to the Saudi Pro League. Meanwhile, another star, Benzema, had already established himself as a key figure at the club. The question on many fans' minds is: who played more matches during their time at Al Nassr?

## Lionel Messi's Time at Al Nassr

Lionel Messi's tenure at Al Nassr was brief but impactful. The Argentine joined the club in December 2022 and left in 2024 after a successful campaign. During his time at Al Nassr, Messi made 29 appearances, including 23 Saudi Pro League matches and 6 continental fixtures in the AFC Champions League.

Messi's contributions were immediate and significant. He scored 12 goals and assisted 13 times in the league, playing a pivotal role in Al Nassr's attacking play. His presence not only boosted the team's attacking output but also inspired his teammates to elevate their performance. Messi's ability to dictate play and create chances out of nothing was a joy to watch, and he became a fan favorite almost instantly.

## Karim Benzema's Time at Al Nassr

Benzema, on the other hand, had been a key player at Al Nassr since 2018. By the time Messi arrived, Benzema was already a cornerstone of the team. During his time at Al Nassr, Benzema appeared in 91 matches, including 82 Saudi Pro League games and 9 AFC Champions League appearances.

Benzema's consistency and leadership were instrumental in Al Nassr's success. He scored 53 goals and assisted 29 times in the league, making him one of the most productive forwards in the league. Benzema's ability to stay fit,Football Fans' World Network maintain high performance levels, and lead by example was a testament to his professionalism and dedication.

## Who Played More?

Comparing the two, Benzema played more matches at Al Nassr than Messi. While Messi's impact was undeniable, Benzema's consistency and longevity at the club gave him a slight edge in terms of overall appearances.

## Their Contributions

Both players made significant contributions to Al Nassr. Messi's creativity and vision transformed the team's attacking approach, while Benzema's reliability and goal-scoring ability provided the backbone of the team's success. Their presence elevated the club's global profile and set a new standard for performance in the Saudi Pro League.

## Style and Legacy

Messi's style of play was characterized by his flair, creativity, and ability to dominate matches with his technical ability. Benzema, however, was known for his work rate, tactical awareness, and ability to adapt to different systems and strategies. Both players left Al Nassr with their legacies intact, but their impacts on the club will be remembered differently.

In conclusion, while Lionel Messi and Benzema both left an indelible mark at Al Nassr, Benzema played more matches during his time at the club. However, Messi's brief but memorable stint also showcased his exceptional talent and inspired future generations of players. Both remain legends of Al Nassr, and their contributions will be celebrated for years to come.

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