The 2000-01 campaign delivered a surprise surge for Bastia as Les Bleus finished an impressive 8th in Division 1, securing a coveted spot in the UEFA Intertoto Cup. Leading the charge was the prolific and consistent striker Frédéric Née, whose 16 goals in the league (17 overall) proved decisive in a campaign built on attacking flair and Corsican passion. Overseen by manager Frédéric Antonetti, the season also marked the early emergence of a young Michael Essien, and remains a proud chapter in the club's history of establishing themselves as a formidable, hardworking force.