The 2004-05 campaign delivered a stunning, top-half finish for Messina as the Giallorossi clinched a surprise 7th place in their triumphant return to Serie A after a 40-year absence. Leading the charge was the charismatic striker Riccardo Zampagna, whose 12 crucial goals proved decisive in a campaign built on shocking the league's giants. It was a golden year that marked dramatic upset victories over both AC Milan (2-1 at the San Siro) and Internazionale and remains a defining chapter of a truly memorable top-flight resurgence.