The 1995-96 campaign delivered a phenomenal success for FC Metz, as Les Grenats not only secured a strong 4th-place finish in Division 1, earning a coveted UEFA Cup spot, but also clinched the club's first major trophy: the Coupe de la Ligue. Spearheading the attack were the prolific young forwards Robert Pirès and Cyrille Pouget, who each netted 11 league goals, with Pouget in particular being hailed as a new star. The triumph came after a dramatic final victory over rivals Lyon, won 5-4 on penalties at the Parc des Princes, cementing the season as a defining, glorious chapter in the history of Les Grenats.