In the 2005 season, Imortal Tricolor achieved a heroic recovery by capturing the Campeonato Brasileiro Série B title and securing promotion back to the top flight under the tactical guidance of manager Mano Menezes. Despite severe financial difficulties, the squad showcased incredible resilience, culminating in the legendary Batalha dos Aflitos against Náutico. Key young talents like Anderson, who scored the dramatic match-winning goal with only seven players on the pitch, and Lucas Leiva made impactful contributions.