The 2002-03 campaign saw Lens secure a respectable 8th-place finish in Ligue 1 under manager Joël Müller, a season defined by a passionate European journey alongside solid domestic form. Spearheading the attack for Les Sang et Or was the ever-reliable Antoine Sibierski, whose 12 league goals were vital. Despite facing a tough Champions League group featuring AC Milan and Bayern Munich, their memorable run to the group stage and subsequent push to the UEFA Cup Third Round demonstrated the club's continental ambition, marking a proud chapter in the team's history.