The 2001-02 campaign was a thrilling season of ambition and ultimate heartbreak for RC Lens, as Les Sang et Or clinched a spectacular 2nd-place finish in Division 1, narrowly missing out on their second-ever league title. The season, led by manager Joël Müller, was defined by a dramatic final-day showdown against Lyon, where a 3-1 defeat snatched the title away from the championship leaders. Leading the charge was the prolific forward Daniel Moreira, whose 12 goals proved vital in a campaign that secured a coveted spot in the UEFA Champions League. It remains an unforgettable, dramatic chapter where the team pushed the eventual champions all the way to the wire.