The 2000-01 campaign for Sporting CP was a season of defense and new eras, as the reigning champions finished 3rd in the Primeira Liga, securing qualification for the UEFA Cup and winning the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira. Leading the attack was the prolific veteran, Alberto 'El Matador' Acosta, whose 14 league goals proved vital. The squad, featuring icons like Peter Schmeichel and new signing João Vieira Pinto, also competed in the Champions League group stage in a campaign that was ultimately defined by a dramatic year of transition.