The 1993-94 campaign delivered a vital resurgence for Napoli as the Partenopei, under the future coaching legend Marcello Lippi, fought through financial difficulties to secure an impressive 6th-place finish in Serie A and a coveted UEFA Cup spot. Leading the charge was the sensational Uruguayan forward Daniel Fonseca, whose 15 league goals proved decisive in a season that also featured the famous wonder goal by Paolo Di Canio against the mighty AC Milan. This successful year, which also saw the emergence of a young Fabio Cannavaro, was a crucial turning point that launched Lippi's career, though the team's financial woes forced the departures of both Fonseca and captain Ciro Ferrara immediately afterward.