In the 1997 season, the Tricolor enjoyed notable campaigns, finishing as runners-up in both the Campeonato Paulista and the Supercopa Sudamericana, while also reaching the semi-finals of the Torneo Rio-São Paulo. Under the leadership of managers Muricy Ramalho and later Dario Pereyra, the squad demonstrated great attacking prowess. Star forward Dodô shined brightly as the team's top goalscorer, netting an incredible 54 goals across all competitions during a highly competitive year.