The 2002-03 campaign delivered European qualification and silverware for Hertha BSC as Die Alte Dame finished a strong 5th in the Bundesliga, securing a coveted UEFA Cup spot for the fourth consecutive year. Spearheading the charge was the Brazilian attacking midfielder Marcelinho Paraíba, whose 14 goals anchored a campaign built on flair and consistency that also saw the club lift the DFB-Ligapokal. It was a standout year under manager Huub Stevens that marked their deep run to the UEFA Cup Round of 16 and remains a defining chapter of their modern European success.