The 2001-02 campaign was a season of turbulent transition for Lazio, with the Biancocelesti finishing a disappointing 6th in Serie A, which secured a place in the UEFA Cup. The season was characterized by the controversial summer departures of star midfielders Nedved and Veron, leading to instability that saw Dino Zoff replaced by Alberto Zaccheroni early on. Despite the turmoil and a quick exit from the Champions League Group Stage, the team's attack was anchored by the prolific Hernán Crespo, whose 13 league goals (20 overall) proved decisive. This difficult chapter is notably remembered for a devastating 1-5 home loss in the Derby della Capitale to rivals Roma, but ended on a high with a dramatic 4-2 final-day victory over Inter that cost the Nerazzurri the Scudetto.