The 2001-02 campaign saw AC Perugia Calcio, under the fiery guidance of manager Serse Cosmi, consolidate their top-flight status by finishing a strong 8th in Serie A, securing a coveted spot in the Intertoto Cup. Leading the charge was the powerful centre-forward Fabio Bazzani, whose 10 league goals (13 overall) anchored the attack in a season built on grit and an impressive home record. The campaign's defining moment was a spectacular 3-1 victory over AC Milan at the Stadio Renato Curi, a result secured by the goals of Bazzani and Zisis Vryzas, which remains an iconic memory for the Grifoni faithful.