The 1996-97 campaign was a turbulent season for Les Sang et Or, with Lens ultimately finishing a disappointing 13th in Division 1. Leading the charge was the Guinea forward Titi Camara, whose 6 goals proved crucial in a campaign built on mid-season struggle and a negative goal difference. This challenging year, which also included an early UEFA Cup exit to Lazio, served as a crucial transition period that, despite the turmoil, unexpectedly laid the groundwork for the club's sensational, shock league title triumph the very next season.. The 1997-98 campaign delivered the greatest triumph in RC Lens's history as Les Sang et Or, led by manager Daniel Leclercq, clinched their first and only Division 1 title in a dramatic final-day race with FC Metz. Spearheading the spectacular late-season surge was Montenegrin striker Anto Drobnjak, whose 14 goals proved decisive as the club secured the championship on goal difference, forever cementing the Blood and Gold's status as French football champions.