The 2002-03 campaign was a season of spectacular achievement and cup glory for Sochaux as Les Lionceaux surged to a strong 5th-place finish in Ligue 1, securing a European spot. The attack was spearheaded by the prolific duo of Pierre-Alain Frau and Mickaël Pagis, who each netted 9 goals in the league, with the team also reaching the Coupe de la Ligue final. It was a standout year under manager Guy Lacombe that marked the club's successful fight for European football and cemented their status as an emerging force in France.