**_former Portuguese striker Cédric Soares's impressive career with Sporting CP: Statistics and Highlights**
**Introduction**
Cédric Soares, a former Portuguese striker who played a pivotal role at Sporting CP, has been recognized for his exceptional career and contributions to the club. This article delves into his journey, highlighting his impact with detailed statistics and key highlights.
**Career Highlights**
Cédric Soares' journey to Sporting CP began in his youth, where he quickly rose through the ranks. He first joined CP in 1988, emerging as a standout striker. His early career saw him play for other clubs before transitioning to CP, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and skill.
In 1997, Soares joined León, where he scored his first goal and set the stage for his future success. His career expanded to include Ligue 1, Ligue 2, and European competitions, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the game.
**Key Statistics**
- **Goals**: Soares scored 163 goals, ranking him 2nd in France.
- **Passes**: 8,820, ranking him 1st in France.
- **Total Passes**: 2,084, ranking him 3rd in France.
- **Goals Against**: 135, ranking him 4th in France.
- **Goals per Game**: 2.2, ranking him 2nd in France.
- **Average Passes per Game**: 4.18, ranking him 2nd in France.
- **Goals Against per Game**: 1.1, ranking him 1st in France.
**Notable Achievements**
- **European Championship**: Soares led his country to victory in 1995, securing a spot in the semi-finals of the 1996 World Cup.
- **European Championship II**: He also played a crucial role in the 1996 European Championship II, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
- **European Championship III**: Soares was named the Best Player for the tournament in 1996 and later the Best Player for the 1996 European Championship III.
- **European Championship IV**: He made his debut in the 1996 European Championship IV and delivered a memorable moment in the 1996 World Cup.
**Conclusion**
Cédric Soares' career at Sporting CP was marked by excellence, versatility, and a deep understanding of football. His contributions have left a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of strikers. Soares' impact on Sporting CP and beyond underscores the enduring significance of his legacy in the world of football.